In the past biathlon season, Emil Nykvist was always part of the Swedish World Cup contingent. The friend of cross-country skiing superstar Stina Nilsson had been nominated as a substitute at the World Cup. Now the 28-year-old made a surprising decision.
On Monday, the Swedish biathlon association announced the A-National team, which is intended for the upcoming World Cup winter. Eight women and six men are on the list of athletes who come together in Östersund in the coming weeks to prepare for the new season.
The name of Emil Nykvist, who was allowed to complete six World Cup races last winter, was surprising. “We had very good conversations with Emil. We noticed very early on that we think a little differently. He wants to spend more time at home, and I respect that.
The 28-year-old has been in a relationship with cross-country ski superstar Stina Nilsson for around two years. Even during the current season, the biathlete had revealed that it was difficult for him to rarely see his loved ones. Participation in the upcoming training camp in Austria would again mean a local separation of the winter sports dream couple.
Biathlon: Nykvist has to “go his own way”
Instead, the European Championship third wants to stay near the common house and train in Dalarna. “I fully respect that. The most important thing is that everyone goes their own way and supports each other that both sides do what they believe in,” said Lukas at a digital press conference.
However, it is not excluded that Nykvist will be used for the Swedish A selection in the upcoming World Cup season. However, the absence of the joint training camp in Austria has become much less likely. He will (initially) prove himself in the second-class IBU Cup.
“It is important that everyone goes their way and we support him. Then hopefully he will come back very strongly for the winter season. It is important to do what you think and do not follow someone else,” emphasized Lukas.