Therese Johaug, one of the greatest cross-country skiers of all time, has announced that she needs more time before deciding whether to fully commit to the 2026 Winter Olympics.

After an intense and emotional return to competition this past season, Johaug is in no rush to determine her future in elite skiing. In a statement released by the Norwegian Ski Association, she explained:

“I am tired after a long and eventful season, and feel that I am not ready to make a decision about the future now. Therefore, I have asked for some more time before making a final decision. It is important to me that such an important decision is made when I have the energy and am ready for it.”

No Pressure, Full Support

Johaug’s status for the Norwegian national team remains formally open, with no deadline set for her final decision. The cross-country management in Norway fully supports her need for time and space.

“Therese is getting the time she needs, and we do not want to pressure her in any way when it comes to such an important decision. We naturally hope that she will continue and will facilitate it, but this is something she must decide completely and completely herself,” said Cathrine Instebø, general manager of cross-country skiing.

The Norwegian Ski Association has confirmed that Johaug will be listed among the selected athletes for the upcoming season, should she choose to return.

A Triumphant Comeback in 2024/2025

After retiring following the 2021/2022 season, Johaug made a spectacular return to competition this past winter — and her results spoke volumes.

Also Read: Johaug is back!

World Cup Season Highlights

• Ruka, Finland: Kicked off her season with a strong 2nd place in the 10km classic.
• Lillehammer, Norway: Dominated the 10km freestyle and 20km skiathlon, claiming back-to-back victories.
• Oslo Holmenkollen: Took another World Cup win in the 20km interval start classic, smiling her way through the home-course triumph.
• Lahti, Finland: Won the prestigious 50km classic mass start – a major statement of endurance.

World Championships in Trondheim

Johaug delivered an emotional and high-performance campaign at the 2025 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships on home soil:

• Silver – 10km Classic Interval Start
• Silver – 20km Skiathlon
• Silver – 4×7.5km Relay
• Bronze – 50km Mass Start

Racing in front of the home crowd in Trondheim, Johaug proved she is still a dominant force.

Tour de Ski Victory

As if her comeback wasn’t already legendary, Johaug also won the 2024/2025 Tour de Ski, tying Justyna Kowalczyk’s record with four overall titles in the prestigious stage event.

Read More: Johaug wins Final Climb and Tour de Ski overall

Looking Ahead: Olympic Decision Still Pending

After such a physically and emotionally charged season, Johaug is now taking the time to evaluate what comes next. While fans, media, and teammates are hopeful that she will target the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina, the decision remains fully in her hands.

Whether she continues or chooses to close her elite racing chapter once again, her comeback has already solidified her legacy as one of the sport’s true icons.

Read the full press release from the Norwegian Ski Association

Are you interested in traditional cross-country skiing? Click HERE and read more about it.

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