Swedish sprint prospect sets lofty goal before Ruka opener: “Olympic gold”

The men’s cross-country World Cup sprint season opens in Ruka on Saturday, and Swedish newcomer Anton Grahn arrives with confidence after a standout performance at the Swedish season opener in Gällivare.

Grahn surged past compatriot Edvin Anger in the final sprint there, and now he has set his sights higher on the international stage. “Getting a strong result in Ruka could bring an early Olympic nod so I can focus on my dream—Olympic gold,” he says.

The Ruka sprint marks the first major benchmark of the winter for athletes seeking to lock in selection for Milan–Cortina 2026. Grahn’s comments underscore both his form and his long-term goals as Sweden fields a competitive sprint group into the opening World Cup weekend.