Frida Karlsson Withdraws from Olympic Five-Mile Race Due to Illness

Swedish skiing star Frida Karlsson will not compete in Sunday’s Olympic five-mile race in Val di Fiemme, Italy, due to ongoing cold symptoms. The decision was made in consultation with the Swedish team’s medical staff, according to a statement released by the team’s press officer, Astri Lindbäck.

Karlsson herself confirmed the news on her Instagram account, stating she is currently experiencing a fever.

The 26-year-old Karlsson was considered a strong medal contender in the event, having already secured two gold medals – in the skiathlon and 10 kilometer freestyle – and a silver medal in the relay during the ongoing Olympic Games in Italy.

Sweden will be represented in the five-mile race by Ebba Andersson, Jonna Sundling, and Emma Ribom. Andersson is now viewed as Sweden’s best hope for a medal in the event.