Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Lægreid (28) couldn’t hold back tears after winning the bronze medal in the 20 km race. In an emotional interview for NRK public television publicly apologized for the infidelity and admitted that he was going through the most difficult period of his life, reports The Guardian.
The gold medal was won by Johan-Olav Botn, the silver went to the Frenchman Éric Perrot, but it was Lægreid’s open appearance in front of the cameras that shocked the Norwegian television viewers. “There’s something I want to share with someone who may not even be watching today,” he said. “Half a year ago I met the love of my life, the most beautiful and kindest person in the world. Three months ago I made the mistake of my life – I cheated on her. I told her a week ago. It was the worst week of my life.” he confided.
Lægreid added that although he won the bronze, the sport has taken a back seat for him in recent days. “I had a gold medal in my life. I know many may see it differently, but I only have eyes for her. Sport was secondary these days. Yes, I wish I could share that with her.”
When asked how he managed to take third place despite a personal crisis, he answered: “I’m trying to be a good role model and I did something stupid. I got a nice video from the club back home and I used that as motivation today. Like I said, I want to be a good example, but I have to admit when I do something wrong. You have to admit when you do something you can’t stand behind and hurt someone you love very much.’
Lægreid has a relay gold from the Beijing Olympics four years ago and a total of 14 medals from the World Championships, including seven gold. After the ceremony, he returned to the whole situation once more. “I don’t want to say who it is. After what happened last week, she’s had enough. But I hope there’s light at the end of the tunnel for both of us and that she can continue to love me.” he said.
About the incident later in the NRK studio also expressed the legendary Johannes Thingnes Bø. “It was a big surprise. It was a wrong act, we saw a penitent boy standing there. Unfortunately, the time, place and timing are completely wrong.” he thinks.
date:2026-02-10 19:30:00
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