Skistad and Svahn Dominate Sprint Prologue in Falun – World Cup Update
Falun, Sweden – February 28, 2026 – Kristine Stavås Skistad and Linn Svahn showcased their sprinting prowess at the World Cup event in Falun, securing their places in the next round of competition. Svahn, the reigning Olympic champion, delivered a particularly dominant performance, leaving her competitors trailing.
Svahn Sets the Pace
Linn Svahn demonstrated exceptional form, winning the prologue with a significant lead of over 4.6 seconds over her nearest rival. Her performance underscored her status as a top contender in the sprint discipline. NRK reports that Svahn was “in a league of her own” on the Lugnet skistadion.
Skistad Advances Despite Tough Competition
Kristine Stavås Skistad also advanced to the later rounds, finishing with the twelfth-best time. While not as dominant as Svahn, Skistad’s performance was sufficient to secure her progression through the heats. Aftenbladet noted Skistad finished nearly 10 seconds behind Svahn.
Course Changes and Challenges
The competition wasn’t without its challenges. Organizers made a last-minute alteration to the sprint course, causing difficulties for some athletes. Emma Ribom, a Swedish profile, expressed frustration, stating she “went wrong the entire training” due to the unexpected changes. NRK reported on the course modifications.
Other Notable Performances
Julie Bjervig Drivenes led the Norwegian contingent with a fifth-place finish in the prologue. Julie Myhre, Milla Grosberghaugen, and Mathilde Myhrvold also qualified for the next round, while Tiril Udnes Weng was eliminated.
Results – Ladies Sprint Prologue
- 1. Linn Svahn (SWE)
- 2. Kristina Stavås Skistad (NOR)
- 3. Nadine Fähndrich (SUI)
- 5. Maja Dahlqvist
- 6. Johanna Hagström
- 8. Moa Lundgren
- 11. Moa Ilar
- 19. Elin Henriksson
- 28. Marta Rosenberg
- 29. Lisa Ingesson
- 30. Emma Ribom (DNF quarter-final)
Results – Gentlemen Sprint Prologue
- 1. Johannes Hösflot Kläbo (NOR)
- 2. Lars Heggen (NOR)
- 3. Benjamin Moser (AUT)
- 7. George Ersson
- 10. Anton Grahn
Full results are available here.