Cross-country: Calle Halfvarsson reveals family decision: “Keeping the kids at home”

Swedish cross-country skier Calle Halfvarsson has struggled with recurring colds during his pre‑season. With only a few weeks left until the season begins, he and his family have adopted a new approach to try to avoid more illness.

“We’ve kept the kids home from preschool for a few weeks so we don’t bring home sickness from there. It’s basically daycare at home during the days,” Halfvarsson explains.

The 36‑year‑old is making a renewed push this season outside the Swedish national team structure. His next milestone is the Swedish season opener in Gällivare on 21–23 November, which should give the first indication of how his independent setup is working.

“I’m not putting the skis on the shelf if Gällivare goes badly. Then it’s just a matter of fighting on. But it would be nice if it worked right away. I really want to go to the World Cup opener in Ruka — I like Ruka. That’s goal number one,” he says.

SVT will broadcast the Swedish season opener in Gällivare. The FIS Cross‑Country World Cup begins in Ruka on 28–30 November, with coverage on Viaplay.