Sturla Holm Lægreid's infidelity scandal caused him to lose weight due to difficulty eating and sleeping, he explained. He added that it was a physical reaction and part of the process. Lægreid told his partner about the infidelity a week before the interview and she ended their relationship.
He stated that he met the love of his life six months ago and cheated three months ago, expressing hope for reconciliation. However, his ex-girlfriend responded in the Norwegian press after his interview, noting it's hard to forgive and that she did not choose to be in this position. The current status of the relationship remains unclear.
Lægreid later released a statement to VG expressing regret for bringing up the personal story on a joyous day for Norwegian biathlon. The detailed contents of his full statement are not fully known. His interview about infidelity was controversial and upset Johan-Olav Botn.
It has been eventful. There has been a lot, so it becomes special to get a little break to absorb all the impressions, says Sturla Holm Lægreid to NRK.
Botn won gold at the Winter Olympics and intended to dedicate it to his late friend and team-mate Sivert Guttorm Bakken. Lægreid reflected on the season, stating it has been eventful and the finish gave him joy. Before Christmas, Lægreid did not have a single individual podium finish in the World Cup.
His results gradually improved through the winter, and by the end of the season he was the best male biathlete in the world. He won two of three races at Holmenkollen at the end of the season. Lægreid also won bronze in the individual race at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
He had seven consecutive World Cup victories in a row until Johan-Olav Botn won the final mass start on Sunday. Lægreid was considered the natural successor to Tarjei Bø and Johannes Thingnes Bø. Vetle Sjåstad Christiansen believes Lægreid has gained a different perspective on life and sports.
The finish here has given me a lot of joy, so I am really taking that with me forward, tells the Norwegian biathlete.
Lægreid shared his personal growth, saying he has found his way back to himself and come out strengthened. He elaborated that tough experiences teach about oneself and can be used to grow. Lægreid added he used the difficult to shape into a better version of himself, concluding with advice to not give up and always fight on.
He also mentioned there's someone he wanted to share this with who might not be watching today. Lægreid expressed he had a gold medal in his life and only has eyes for her, hoping it might make her realise how much he loves her. Looking ahead, he said he hopes to get plenty of good food at upcoming events to eat well and get back into shape.
The Norwegian biathlon team and officials have not provided an official response to the controversy.