Hanna Falk before Olympic selection: “They should already get their Olympic tickets”

Swedish cross‑country sprinter Johanna Hagström endured a tough weekend in the World Cup and, in a widely discussed interview with Aftonbladet, spoke openly about the heavy pressure during an Olympic year.

Radiosporten’s expert Hanna Falk, herself a former national team sprinter, says she was deeply affected by Hagström’s comments. “I get very moved when I see Johanna and I feel a lot for her. I know how tough it is,” Falk explains.

Falk is now calling on the Swedish national team leadership to announce their Olympic selections early, arguing that giving athletes clarity on Milano‑Cortina 2026 spots would reduce stress and allow them to prepare properly. The discussion underscores how selection uncertainty can weigh on athletes during the World Cup season leading up to the Games.

Authors: Viktor Andersson and Linn Nenzén.