Frida Karlsson on Track for Olympic Return After Foot Injury Recovery

Frida Karlsson, the Swedish cross-country skiing star, is making significant progress in her recovery after foot problems forced her withdrawal from the Tour de Ski. Since pulling out before the final stage, Karlsson has prioritized rehabilitation, returning to Sweden to focus on her recovery. Her coach, Per Nilsson, affirmed that the decision to halt competition and rehabilitate in Sweden was crucial to her current improved condition.

Karlsson is now training at high altitude in Lavazé near Val di Fiemme, the site of the upcoming Olympic Games starting February 7. The altitude of about 2000 meters and favorable weather conditions make Lavazé an ideal training location as she prepares to join the Swedish national team. She has chosen not to compete in the most recent World Cup event in Goms, instead opting to focus solely on strengthening her foot and building Olympic form.

Sharing the training terrain, Karlsson has been working alongside elite athletes such as Norwegian Olympic hopefuls Johannes Høsflot Klæbo and Emil Iversen. This camaraderie offers a positive environment, although the mood there remains sobering due to the recent tragic passing of Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken, which has affected many athletes at the training venue. Iversen has recently received confirmation of his Olympic participation, adding a note of optimism to the group.

Karlsson herself reported improvements in her foot, signaling her readiness to compete on the Olympic stage. Both she and Klæbo had impressive performances at last year's World Championships, with Karlsson securing a gold medal in the relay and Klæbo winning six golds.

In summary, after a period marked by injury and rehabilitation, Frida Karlsson’s current training efforts, supported by experienced peers and strategic preparation, indicate she is well on her way to returning to top form for the Winter Olympics.