Kerttu Niskanen’s sixth – Juho Mikkonen whipped himself

Sixth place wasn’t what it was Kerttu Niskanen was waiting for his main trip to the World Cup.

Also a trainer Juho Mikkonen was serious after the 30 kilometer traditional race.

– I’m disappointed. I’m in charge of coaching. I couldn’t get him in good enough shape, Mikkonen whipped himself.

In an interview with Viaplay, Niskanen described that he was in the worst shape of his career in Planica. Being without a medal was not satisfying.

According to Mikkonen, everything was fine before 30 kilometers from the east. The leg injury a week ago no longer hindered the pace.

– Kertu’s health and condition were good before the race. Everything was set for this day. It was sixth place. We were close.

Niskanen’s ski guardian Mika Venäläinen said after the race that the Finnish star changed to inferior skis in the middle of the race. There was not enough slip, so the replacement was not worth it.

Mikkonen doesn’t want to worry about equipment problems.

– The other skis were perhaps worse. That’s what it’s like. You have to choose them correctly and you have to be able to lubricate them correctly.

– The maintenance team has done their best. It can no longer be changed.

Long time

Niskanen turns 35 in June. Next year is a gap year from the World Championships, as the medals will be skied for next time in Trondheim 2025.

Then 10 kilometers are raced with traditional, but the queen’s race is 30 kilometers free.

Do you believe there will still be opportunities for a medal?

– It’s hard to say. It’s a long time when you ski 30 kilometers on traditional next time, Mikkonen formulated.

Niskanen’s season continues next weekend at the Holmenkollen World Cup, where women will ski a 50 kilometer race for the first time. Disappointment is melted on the plane.

– Now we are going to travel home and towards the next weekend.