At the end of April, Johaug’s manager, Jørn Ernst, announced that she would soon clarify her future and whether she would accept the national team spot that is ready for her. Now, the Norwegian superstar Therese Johaug has made a decision, is making a comeback to the top level, and is aiming for the World Championships on home soil.

“I want to give the dream of the World Championships on home soil a chance,” says Johaug in a press release from the Norwegian Ski Association.

The traditional cross-country skiing star, who retired from World Cup-level competition after the 2022 Olympic season, had hinted several times that the idea of a comeback for the home World Championships next winter tempted her.

“In 2022, I put my skis on the shelf because I wanted to start a family, but I have continued to train because it gives me so much joy. Both in the National Championships and in tests, it still seems as if I have something to contribute to the ski track, and the desire to have the start number on my chest is just as strong,” says Johaug and adds:

“After two eventful years on the sidelines, I have again had the opportunity to become part of the Norwegian Skiing Association’s cross-country initiative and want to give the dream of the World Championships on home soil a chance. I am excited to see what is possible to achieve and hope that I will be able to take part in the folk festival at the World Championships in Trondheim. See you on the tracks.”

Also Read: Johaug opens up about World Championships comeback

National team coach Sjur Ole Svarstad and Cross-country skiing General Manager Cathrine Instebø are thrilled with Johaug’s comeback:

“This is fantastic news for everyone fond of Norwegian cross-country skiing. Last winter, we saw what still lives in Therese. I am looking forward to working with her in the run-up to the World Ski Championships on home soil. There is no doubt that the younger skiers get an athlete to look up to and not least to learn a lot from,” says Svarstad.

“We are very happy that Therese is back on the (Norwegian) national cross-country team. Together, we have found a good plan for the World Championships. It is important to us at the Skiing Association that there is room for mothers of young children in the top sport. We are now stepping up to what will be a folk festival in Granåsen in February and March. I am delighted that Therese is making a comeback,” concludes Instebø. 

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