The doctor of the national team considers obtaining a special permit very important.
Linn Svahn is still suffering from a concussion a year ago. EPA / AOP
Swedish skiing star Linn for Svahn a special permit has been applied for the Olympics, says Aftonbladet. The Swedish national team has asked the International Olympic Committee (IOC) that Svahn should not participate in press conferences at the Olympics.
The reason for the demand is Svahn’s mild brain injury, which occurred as a result of a concussion in February of last year, just before the World Championships in Trondheim. Svahn suffers from cognitive fatigue, which makes him more susceptible than usual to external stimuli, such as sounds and lights.
National team doctor Rickard Noberius tells Aftonbladet that press conferences have caused Svahn unpleasant symptoms during the past year.
– There have been a few media days this season, after which he has always been mentally depressed for a week or two. During the Olympics, he should be working with the media on a daily basis, which is simply not possible, Noberius commented.
At the Olympics, all medalists are invited to a press conference. Sweden’s application requests that Svahn not have to participate in the event in question.
In addition, all athletes pass through the interview area after each race. There are journalists in the area who interview the athletes. According to Aftonbladet, Svahn plans to follow the rule, but will only give one interview in the area.
