Klaebo Wins Skiathlon Gold, Nears Skiing Records

Johannes Klaebo of Norway has won the first gold medal in the men's skiathlon at the 2026 Winter Olympics. This is his sixth Olympic gold, and he is now close to breaking historical records in cross-country skiing.
By Newsroom | Winter Sports, Olympics |

Johannes Høsflot Klaebo has secured his first gold medal of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in the men's 10km + 10km skiathlon. This victory marks his sixth Olympic gold medal and places him on a significant trajectory to potentially become the most decorated male cross-country skier in Olympic history. Klaebo's performance, characterized by a strong finish in the final kilometer, saw him hold off close competitors, though the event also saw other athletes face challenges including falls and a post-race review of a penalty.

Klaebo wins first of potential six golds at Games - 1

Race Details and Immediate Aftermath

The men's 10km + 10km skiathlon event concluded with Johannes Høsflot Klaebo of Norway crossing the finish line first.

Klaebo wins first of potential six golds at Games - 2

  • Winning Time: Klaebo's time was recorded at 46 minutes and 11.0 seconds.

  • Second Place: Mathis Desloges from France secured the silver medal, finishing 2.0 seconds behind Klaebo.

  • Third Place: Martin Nyenget of Norway took the bronze, trailing by 2.1 seconds.

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The race, which combines classic and freestyle skiing techniques with a ski switch midway, saw changes in distance this year, with both men and women now competing over 20 kilometers.

Klaebo wins first of potential six golds at Games - 3

Significant Performances and Incidents

Klaebo's victory is notable not only for the gold medal but also for his standing in Olympic and World Cup history.

Klaebo wins first of potential six golds at Games - 4

  • Olympic Standing: This win adds to Klaebo's collection, bringing his Olympic gold medal count to six. He is now reportedly two golds away from equaling the overall Winter Olympics record for golds and aims to surpass compatriot Marit Bjoergen's record of eight Olympic golds in cross-country skiing.

  • World Cup Dominance: Klaebo is already recognized as the most successful male cross-country skier with 107 World Cup wins.

  • Challenges for Competitors:

  • Falls: Athletes Edvin Anger (Sweden) and Harald Oestberg Amundsen (Norway) experienced falls on the course, described as icy.

  • Penalty Review: Mathis Desloges of France was subject to jury deliberations after receiving a yellow card for an on-course infraction. He was penalized for cutting a corner, an action that may have provided a tactical advantage of several meters around the 13-kilometer mark. The decision to allow him to retain his silver medal appeared to be accepted by other athletes.

Klaebo's Race Strategy and Future Prospects

Witnesses to Klaebo's racing style suggest his strategy often involves patience, a characteristic evident in this event.

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  • Tactical Approach: Klaebo reportedly maintained a patient pace for much of the race, making his decisive move on the final climb to secure his lead. He was observed to be in the leading pack throughout the competition.

  • Potential for More Medals: This skiathlon gold is the first of what could be six potential gold medals for Klaebo at these Games. He is slated to compete in upcoming events, including the men's and women's sprint.

  • Personal Milestones: With an additional four gold medals, Klaebo could become the most decorated male Olympic cross-country skier. His career success is attributed, in part, to his dedication since the age of 16 and the guidance of his grandfather, Kåre Høsflot, his coach.

Expert Insights and Context

The event has drawn commentary regarding Klaebo's dominance and the sport's evolving landscape.

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"Klaebo's status as the top contender is rarely in doubt, and he showed that Sunday, making his move on the final climb and leaving no question about his status as the favorite at these Games." - New York Times

"His latest win puts the 29-year-old Norwegian just two gold medals away from equaling the Winter Olympics record, and he has five more chances to add to his haul in Italy." - ESPN

The adjustment to a 20-kilometer distance for both men and women in the skiathlon this year is a notable change in the event's format.

Conclusion and Implications

Johannes Høsflot Klaebo's victory in the skiathlon is a significant opening to his 2026 Olympic campaign. It underscores his position as a dominant force in cross-country skiing and propels him closer to multiple historical records. The event also highlighted the competitive nature of the sport, with close finishes, penalties, and incidents affecting other competitors. Klaebo's continued participation in upcoming events suggests further opportunities to witness his pursuit of Olympic and cross-country skiing history. The decision regarding Desloges' penalty appears to have concluded, with the podium order finalized.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who won the men's skiathlon gold medal?
Johannes Klaebo from Norway won the gold medal.
Q: How many Olympic gold medals does Klaebo now have?
He now has six Olympic gold medals.
Q: Is Klaebo close to any records?
Yes, he is close to becoming the most winning male cross-country skier in Olympic history.