Sought after by Norwegian national team veterans, the 40-year-old is now set for Finland.

The successful coach behind Olympic and World Championship stars like Simen Hegstad Krüger has signed with the Finnish cross-country ski team. In Finland, the choice of Hans Kristian Stadheim is described as surprising. 

The Finnish Ski Association explains it this way. 

“He is known for his ability to elevate athletes from the World Cup TOP30 to medal contention through data-driven training planning and physiological optimization,” says the press release.

Also Read: Finnish cross-country skiing team for season 2026/2027

Excited to join

“I am very excited about my new role at the Finnish Ski Association and the opportunity to be part of such a strong skiing culture and to work together with head coach Joakim Abrahamsson. This role is a motivating new challenge, and I look forward to bringing my own experience to support the development and success of the athletes and the team,” says Stadheim, and adds: 

“My goal is to be part of building an environment where athletes can reach their best and achieve their full physiological and athletic potential – while further strengthening Finland’s position in international competition.”

The Finnish Ski Association replaced the entire coaching staff of the national team after the Olympics in Italy. Now, the Norwegian will be part of a coaching team led by Swedish Joakim Abrahamsson as head coach, working with elite teams for both men and women. Matias Strandvall will join as an assistant coach, specializing in sprint.

Stadheim comes to this role after four years as a coach with Team Aker Dæhlie and has for many years been responsible for the British national team, coaching prominent athletes like Andrew Musgrave and James Clugnet. 

Read More – Swedish blunder reveals all: Norwegian gold coach set for Sweden

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