The Norwegian cross-country skier Emil Iversen is back to the World Cup: Secured a spot in the national team at the first opportunity.

On Monday afternoon, the Norwegian selection for the World Cup premiere in Ruka, Finland, was announced: Among the athletes chosen for this weekend’s competitions is Emil Iversen.

The 32-year-old, who was left outside from the Norwegian national team in April, immediately secured a place in the World Cup squad: In Saturday’s 10-kilometer classic race at Beitostølen, Iversen claimed a powerful second place, just 20 seconds behind Erik Valnes.

Thus, he sent a strong message to his critics at the season premiere at Beitostølen.

Read More: Norway’s Team for Ruka World Cup

“Beitostølen is extremely tough. It gives me a lot of self-confidence to have such a good race so early,” said Iversen to Langrenn.com after his second-place finish on Saturday.

The veteran is clear about why he is succeeding now.

“I have made some changes to my training; I have my own team, which gives a lot of energy. I am very grateful for the sponsors I have,” says the 32-year-old, who is now aiming for the 2025 World Championships on home soil.

Also Read: The favorite training session that will ensure Emil Iversen’s comeback

Emil Iversen is one of 25 Norwegian athletes selected for the World Cup premiere in Ruka, scheduled from November 24 to 26.

The program in Ruka includes a classic sprint on Friday, a 10km classic on Saturday, and a 20km freestyle mass start on Sunday. Emil Iversen is selected for Saturday’s classic race.

Read More: World Cup Calendar for the 2023/2024 winter season

FACTS Ruka World Cup Season 2023/2024

• When: Friday, November 24 to Sunday, November 26 
• Who: Elite national skiers – women and men
• Where: Ruka, Finland
• What: FIS Cross-Country World Cup in Ruka, Finland

PROGRAM

Friday, November 24: Sprint C (More details can be found here)

• 10:00 CET: Sprint Quali C, Men 
• 10:00 CET: Sprint Quali C, Women
• 12:30 CET: Sprint Final C, Men
• 12:30 CET: Sprint Final C, Women 

Saturday, November 25: 10km Individual C (More details can be found here)

• 10:00 CET: 10km Individual C, Women
• 12:15 CET: 10km Individual C, Men

Sunday, November 26: 20km Mass Start F (More details can be found here)

• 10:00 CET: 20km Mass Start F, Women
• 12:35 CET: 20km Mass Start F, Men

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