It was an early race between a handful of riders in the ladies’ 10 kilometer individual start in Les Rousses, including Ebba Andersson and Frida Karlsson.
But when it was all said and done, both were off the podium.
Made a comeback
Frida Karlsson was back on track after skipping the Tour de Ski and pulling out with a foot injury.
It was still noticeable that the star had not gone for a while. She finished seventh just under 40 seconds behind.
– I think I felt tense all day. I can’t really relax my legs. I had to fight from the start and didn’t find the good feeling. I’ve had butterflies in my stomach and it’s been going well in training, so I’ve had high expectations, says Frida Karlsson to SVT Sport and continues:
– I am quite disappointed. I know I can do much better.
Near the podium
Ebba Andersson, who has struggled with form, was on her way to the season’s first podium when she was third after six kilometers. But the Swede hooked at the end and finished fifth.
– That was the one I had in mind, so it was a shame that it didn’t last all the way to the finish line. But I have to take the positive parts with me, says Andersson.
How eager are you for a podium place?
– I’ve been just outside quite a few times, so it’s a podium I’m aiming for next.
American Jessie Diggins won, setting an insane pace from the start. She was 20 seconds ahead of the German Victoria Carl and Astrid Öyre Slind from Norway.
The text is updated.