Swedish Pro Team athlete Hedda Bångman strengthens the women’s squad of Team Burger King Northug for Ski Classics Season XVII (2025/2026).

Team Burger King Northug, led by Norwegian star Petter Northug, continues to grow in ambition and structure. A key new signing for the women’s roster is Hedda Bångman, who brings international experience and proven results to the team.

The Swedish Pro Team athlete has delivered several top-10 finishes in Ski Classics over recent seasons. After studying in the United States, Bångman turned her focus to long-distance skiing and has, in recent years, raced for Czech-based Pro Teams before now returning to a Scandinavian setup.

Her signing marks an important step in strengthening the women’s side of the team.

Alongside Bångman, several new names were introduced to the 2025/2026 lineup, including a well-known media personality and promising young talents.

Emil Gukild, known for his work with the Norwegian national broadcaster NRK, has officially left his job to pursue cross-country skiing full-time. A passionate skier, Gukild has already participated in major long-distance events, such as Birkebeinerrennet and Marcialonga, demonstrating steady improvement.

“It’s impossible to say no when Northug calls and invites you to become his teammate,” Gukild told VG. “In recent years, I’ve developed a huge passion for cross-country skiing, and now I get the chance to train and compete with the greatest of all time.”

Leopold Strand, who has been a member of the Norwegian junior national team, also joins the squad. The young athlete is seen as a developing talent with long-distance potential. Another new face is Julie Victoria Berg, a skier from Trøndelag, Norway, who will join Bångman in strengthening the women’s lineup.

From last season, Joar Thele remains with the team. The Norwegian is a long-distance specialist with a consistent record in Ski Classics and is expected to be a key performer again.

Team Burger King Northug – Ski Classics Season XVII (2025/2026)

Women

• Hedda Bångman
• Julie Victoria Berg
• Maren Nielsen
• Fanny Endresen

Men

• Petter Northug
• Joar Thele
• Leopold Strand
• Magnus Waaler
• Emil Gukild

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