Erik Valnes opens up on motivation after tough season

Erik Valnes, the 30-year-old Norwegian cross-country skier, has revealed a period of significant personal struggle following the most recent Olympic season. As of November 7, 2026, Valnes is training in Font-Romeu, France, as he attempts to secure his place back on the Norwegian national team after a difficult period marked by health issues and a loss of interest in the sport.

Why it is trending now

Public interest in Valnes has surged following his candid comments to media outlets regarding his absence from the sport. Valnes admitted that after the Olympic Games in Italy, he became entirely uninterested in cross-country skiing, stating he did not watch a single minute of the World Cup throughout the remainder of the season. His last competition took place in February 2026, and he is now focused on reclaiming his position as a regular member of the national squad.

Key facts

• According to VG, Valnes described himself as "totally uninterested" in skiing after the Olympic Games.
• Nye Troms reports that Valnes is currently motivated to seek a comeback and is aiming for the next Olympic cycle.
• Valnes noted that he is no longer a guaranteed selection for the national team, meaning he must work to earn his spot in every race.
• The athlete has faced challenges in his signature sprint events, including difficult performances at the 2023 World Championships in Planica and the 2025 World Championships in Trondheim.

Why this is trending in Norway

As a prominent national team athlete, Valnes's career trajectory is closely followed by Norwegian skiing fans. His public admission about the mental and physical toll of the previous season, combined with his current efforts to return to form, has sparked significant discussion among followers of Norwegian winter sports.

Background and context

Valnes has competed for the Norwegian national team for seven seasons, but the most recent winter was marred by illness and inconsistent results. After a disappointing performance in his specialty, the sprint, at recent championships, the skier faced a period of reflection. He is now in preparation for the upcoming season, acknowledging that his status within the team has changed compared to previous years.

What happens next

Valnes is currently preparing for the upcoming season with the Norwegian national team. His primary goal is to regain his form and secure his position for future competitions. Whether he will be selected for upcoming World Cup events remains to be determined by team management, as he works to demonstrate his readiness for competition.