Cross-Contry team Gears Up for Engadin World Cup
riding high on a wave of success in France, the Swedish cross-country team is turning its focus to the upcoming World Cup races in Engadin, Switzerland, from January 24 to 26. The team secured three victories, two second-place finishes, and a notable third-place result in Les Rousses, leaving them brimming with confidence and a strong team spirit.
“We are already looking forward to the coming weekend to experience the wonderful atmosphere in the team that was during the competitions in Les Rousses. The victories we took there make the whole team stronger and its nice to see how everyone in the squad is happy for each other,” shared national team manager Anders Byström.
A refreshed roster will take on the Engadin challenge, featuring a mix of veterans and rising stars. Key athletes like Ebba Andersson,Frida Karlsson,and William poromaa have been granted a break to focus on intense World Championship (WC) preparations,as they aim for peak performance in Trondheim. Meanwhile, talented newcomers who shone in the Scandinavian Cup and Smart Energy Cup, such as Olle Jonsson and Gustaf berglund, have earned their spot.
“The changes made in the squad consist of, among other things, that Ebba Andersson, Frida Karlsson, and William Poromaa – three of our skaters who performed the strongest in France - are now entering the WC preparations in earnest and are therefore standing over the competitions in the Engadin, which take place on high altitude,” explained Byström.”It gives us the prospect to pick up some active people who have achieved good results in the Scandinavian Cup in Falun and then in the Smart Energy cup in Bergeforsen – Olle Jonsson and Gustaf Berglund are two of them,” he continued.
The Engadin races will offer a thrilling program, including a mixed relay, freestyle sprint, and a 20-kilometer mass start. Edvin Anger, fresh off his recent sprint victory, is poised to face off against Norwegian star Johannes Høsflot Klæbo in a highly anticipated match-up. The team’s eyes are also set on the first relay of the season, taking place on Friday.
“The goal is to participate and fight for the victory,” stated Byström, reflecting the team’s ambition for a strong showing in Switzerland.
Squad for Engadin
Ladies:
- Maja Dahlqvist, Falun-Borlänge SK
- Moa Hansson, Falun-Borlänge SK
- Moa Ilar, Falun-Borlänge SK
- Moa Lundgren, Åsarna IK
- Emma Ribom, Piteå Elite SK
- Elina Rönnlund, IFK Umeå
- Jonna Sundling, Piteå Elite SK
Gentlemen:
- edvin Anger, Åsarna IK
- Jens Burman, Åsarna IK
- Gustaf Berglund, IFK mora SK
- Anton Grahn, IFK Mora SK
- Calle Halfvarsson, IFK Mora SK
- Johan Häggström, Piteå Elit SK
- Leo Johansson, Falun-Borlänge SK
- Olle Jonsson, Trillevallen’s Sports club
- Måns Skoglund, Åsarna IK
- Oskar Svensson, Falun-Borlänge SK
Program: Engadin, January 24–26
- Friday, January 24
- Mixed Relay 4×5 km (classic/classic/freestyle/freestyle)
16:00 - Saturday, January 25
- Sprint, freestyle
10:45: Prologue sir/dam
13:15: Finals women/men - Sunday, January 26
- 20 km, mass start, freestyle
12:30: Gentlemen
15:00: Ladies
Don’t miss the action! Catch all the races on TV6 and Viaplay Winter.
how does Anders Byström foster a strong team spirit within the Swedish cross-country team?
Archyde Headlines: “A Chat with Anders Byström: sweden’s Cross-Country Powerhouse looks Ahead to Engadin”
Interviewer: sufrlambda for Archyde
sufrlambda (SR): Anders, thank you for taking the time to speak with Archyde. The Swedish cross-country team has had an unbelievable start to the World Cup season. How does it feel to be leading a team that’s brimming with confidence and strong team spirit?
Anders Byström (AB): Thank you for having me. It’s an incredible feeling to see the team performing at such a high level and supporting each other every step of the way. Our success in Les Rousses was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and unity within our team. It’s not just about individual performances; it’s about what we achieve together.
SR: Speaking of which, the team secured three victories and two second-place finishes in Les Rousses. What would you say contributed to this remarkable outcome?
AB: I think it’s a combination of factors. Firstly, our athletes have been putting in immense effort both on and off the snow. Secondly, we have a great balance in our team - a mix of experienced veterans and rising stars who push each other to improve. Lastly, the team atmosphere and support system we’ve built have been invaluable. when one of us succeeds, we all celebrate as one.
SR: That strong team bond was apparent in your previous quote about everyone being happy for each other’s success. Can you tell us more about how you cultivate this kind of team spirit?
AB: It’s all about open communication,respect,and valuing every member’s contribution. We encourage our athletes to share their experiences, learn from each other, and support one another. also, celebrating both victories and learnings together helps strengthen that bond. It’s not just about winning; it’s about growing together as a team.
SR: For the upcoming Engadin World Cup, we understand that Ebba Andersson, Frida Karlsson, and William Poromaa will be taking a break to focus on World championship planning.How do you ensure the team maintains its momentum with these key athletes absent?
AB: While it’s true that we’ll miss these talented athletes, their absence also presents an prospect for others to step up and gain valuable racing experience.Our refreshed roster is eager and ready to take on the challenge.We’ve been working hard on our tactics and strategy,ensuring that everyone understands their role in helping the team succeed.
SR: That’s a great approach. Your team’s resilience and adaptability have truly shone through this season. What message would you like to share with the Swedish fans looking forward to the Engadin World cup?
AB: We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from our fans. Their cheers and encouragement have been a driving force behind our success. For Engadin, we’re looking forward to putting on a great show, representing Sweden with pride, and upholding the strong team spirit that has become our trademark.Smaken Svensk!
SR: thank you, Anders. We’ll be cheering for you and the team in Engadin!
AB: Thank you. We can’t wait to give it our all and make Sweden proud.
