Swedish cross-country skiing star Linn Svahn won’t compete in Wednesday’s women’s sprint relay at the Winter Olympics after coming down with minor cold symptoms, according to Sweden’s national team officials on Tuesday.
The 25-year-old athlete will be replaced by teammates Joanna Sundling and Maja Dahlqvist, who will now shoulder Sweden’s expectations for another medal in the event taking place in Tesero, Italy.
Svahn captured gold in last Tuesday’s women’s classic sprint, leading a complete Swedish domination of the podium alongside Sundling and Dahlqvist. Team officials confirmed she will remain separated from other squad members as a safety measure while staying in Val di Fiemme, Italy, the location of the cross-country competitions.
According to team representatives, Svahn’s illness symptoms are mild, and she continues to stay in the Olympic venue area.
The Swedish team earned silver in Beijing’s women’s team sprint competition and enters Wednesday’s race as heavy favorites following their impressive showing at these Games. Sweden has already claimed eight medals in women’s cross-country skiing events, including three gold medals, making them the dominant force in the discipline.
