The Ski Association confirmed Monsen's exit in a press release, stating he was not offered a new contract following a thorough evaluation. According to the association, the athletes' season review indicated a desire for changes next season, with clear feedback received, though specific details were not disclosed in the release. Monsen had been in the job for 13 years.
It remains unclear what precise feedback led to his departure or who will succeed him as sprint coach. In football, the Norwegian Football Association has called up Iris Omarsdottir from the U23 to the A national team for an away World Cup qualifier against Slovenia. This gathering marks her first at the senior level.
I was motivated to continue for one more season, and that did not happen. I understand that changes are desirable, and I relate professionally to the decision. This is part of top sports.
Omarsdottir, who was sold by Stabæk to Italian club Fiorentina last year, joins the squad after Norway crushed Slovenia 5-0 at Åråsen on Tuesday, with the teams set to meet again in Ptuj on Saturday. Her promotion comes amid injuries that forced Elisabeth Terland and Cathinka Tandberg to withdraw from the squad. National team coach Gemma Grainger delayed replacements until after the U23 team's European tournament semifinal loss to Sweden, providing Omarsdottir with this opportunity on the A team.