After the Olympic allocation: “I don’t see eight men who can perform at that level”

Sweden has received confirmation that it will have eight men’s quota spots in cross‑country skiing at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan–Cortina, an increase from the seven places previously guaranteed.

The expanded allocation theoretically opens the door for additional athletes to be considered. However, former star and Radiosporten expert Torgny Mogren is skeptical. “I don’t see who you would bring. I don’t see eight who can perform at that level,” he says, suggesting that simply having more quota places does not solve the issue of competitive depth on the men’s side.

The discussion comes amid ongoing selection debates within the Swedish team about form, health, and event specialization for the Olympic program. While names such as Calle Halfvarsson and other established team members are in the mix, Mogren’s assessment highlights the challenge of fielding a full eight‑man roster capable of contending in Milan–Cortina 2026.