Swedish cross-country skiing national team chief Anders Byström has resigned. He is leaving his role one year before his contract expires. The announcement came after massive criticism directed at Byström.
Veteran skier Calle Halfvarsson said the resignation was not unexpected, describing it as natural given the circus at the end of the season and during the Olympics. Halfvarsson said the Olympics became messy with selections, and there was disappointment around the selections that felt very hyped up in the media. Dissatisfaction with Byström and the national team leadership has simmered since the Olympics, with both skiers and people around the team reportedly lacking confidence in the chief.
the resignation was not unexpected, describing it as natural given the circus at the end of the season and during the Olympics
Halfvarsson does not fully share that picture, stating he has nothing against Byström or the other coaches personally and that it has worked well for him. However, he noted that looking at the men's team and their performances this year, they have not lived up to expectations, calling it a dark season. Halfvarsson believes the national team needs a fresh start now, with a home World Championship in Falun next year.
the Olympics became messy with selections, and there was disappointment around the selections that felt very hyped up in the media
he has nothing against Byström or the other coaches personally and that it has worked well for him
looking at the men's team and their performances this year, they have not lived up to expectations, calling it a dark season
the national team needs a fresh start now, with a home World Championship in Falun next year