Cross-country: Alvar Myhlback’s team boss after selection: “Pretty much expected”

Team Lager 157 manager Anton Järnberg says Alvar Myhlback’s selection for the World Cup opener in Ruka was “pretty much expected” after the 19-year-old impressed at Sweden’s season opener in Gällivare. Myhlback posted a strong sprint qualification before a narrow disqualification, then finished third in the distance race.

Although Myhlback typically targets long-distance events, Järnberg explained that he and the skier weighed the pros and cons of accepting the Ruka start with regard to both short- and long‑term goals. They concluded it doesn’t clash with other plans, and Myhlback wants to test himself against World Cup competition.

Järnberg emphasized that Myhlback’s main commitment remains to Ski Classics, noting the skier has a two‑year deal with the long‑distance team and is not pursuing an Olympic campaign at this time. With the Milano‑Cortina Olympics approaching, it is still uncertain whether the Games will become relevant for Myhlback, but for now the focus is on long‑distance racing with a one‑off World Cup appearance in Ruka to gauge form.