After six years as head of the national cross-country skiing team, Anders Byström has decided to leave his position.

Over the past six years, Byström has served as the Swedish national team manager. After several successful championships, criticism of the national team management mounted towards the end of the Olympic Games.

Following a few weeks of internal discussions, Byström has decided to terminate his contract with one year remaining.

“This has been a difficult decision for Anders, shaped by the challenges this spring. I have full respect for his decision. Under his leadership, the national cross-country team has achieved great success, and I would like to extend a warm thank you for his significant contributions,” says Lars Öberg, head of cross-country skiing at the Swedish Ski Association, in a press release.

Also Read: Wave of skiers stepping down from the national team

Several successful years

Since 2020, Sweden has been dominant on the women’s side, while the men’s team has faced more challenges.

“I am proud of my six years as national team manager, during which we achieved incredible success together. We have broken record after record at championships, dominated the World Cup, and created huge interest around the national team. At the same time, it is a demanding role with many opinions. It has required a lot of work, commitment, and time away from family. Taking that into account, I have concluded that this is a good time to step aside and give someone else the opportunity to build a team towards the 2030 Olympics.”

Two coaches leave

In addition, two of the national team’s head coaches are stepping down. On the women’s side, Stefan Thomson is leaving, something he had already announced before the season. One of the men’s coaches, Anders Högberg, is also stepping down.

“Both Anders and Stefan have been key figures behind the success of recent years, and we are extremely grateful for all the time, energy, and expertise they have contributed to the team,” concludes Lars Öberg.

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