Sweden Finalizes Biathlon and Cross-Country Skiing Teams for 2026 Winter Olympics

Sweden has secured key spots for its biathlon and cross-country skiing teams ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics in February. Two biathletes, Linn Gestblom and Henning Sjökvist, have locked in their places, while a final biathlon spot will be decided after the World Cup events in Nove Mesto, Czech Republic.

Linn Gestblom, 31, is returning to the Olympics after winning gold in the 2022 relay and two individual World Championship medals. She has made a strong comeback this season following shoulder problems, providing an important alternate option for the relay team. Henning Sjökvist, 28, will make his Olympic debut. Despite suffering from a mysterious and persistent facial pain condition that began in 2024, Sjökvist has shown impressive form under pressure, achieving notable World Cup results like 29th in Annecy and 28th in Ruhpolding.

Sjökvist expressed excitement about his selection prospects, saying, “It’s really cool. I really didn’t expect this last year when I was just sitting at home on the couch.” His coach praised his determination and resilience despite ongoing health struggles.

On the cross-country skiing front, Calle Halfvarsson and Johan Häggström have earned the last two Olympic spots for Sweden’s men’s team. Halfvarsson, 36, battled illness and poor form but clinched his place by finishing sixth in the 10 km classic race at Oberhof. He stated, “I am super happy. It was really at the last second. It has been a tough season.” Häggström, 33, secured his selection despite a sprint disqualification, supported by a strong earlier podium finish in the World Cup sprint relay and versatility across events.

Fredrik Joulamo, sports director of the Swedish Olympic Committee, emphasized the importance of these athletes’ experiences and adaptability, highlighting that Gestblom and Sjökvist bolster Sweden’s relay options in biathlon while Halfvarsson and Häggström strengthen the cross-country lineup.

The 2026 Winter Olympics cross-country skiing competitions commence on February 7 in Val di Fiemme, with biathlon events also on the horizon. The remaining biathlon spot will be announced after the Nove Mesto World Cup races this week, finalizing Sweden’s team composition for the Games.