A big boost for our neighbors. The legendary Norwegian skier applied for Austrian citizenship – Winter sports

In cross-country skiing, he is preparing for a sensational transfer. Legendary Norwegian Petter Northug wants to represent Austria at next year’s Winter Olympics.

Norwegian cross-country skier Petter Northug ended his top career in 2018.

As the Austrian Skiing Association (ÖSV) confirmed to the APA news agency on Thursday, the association received a request to change citizenship from the 39-year-old two-time Olympic champion.

The Norwegian media has already reported on the plans of Northug, who ended his career in December 2018. The 13-time world champion recently impressed with his performance at the Norwegian Championships.

The veteran finished 8th in the 10km race at the national championships on Wednesday, bettering some Norwegian cross-country skiers starting in the World Cup.

As the national coach Eirik Myhr Nossum confirmed to the Norwegian newspaper “VG”, a place in the representative selection of Norway is currently unavailable for the experienced athlete. It seems that Northug’s return to the biggest international events is only possible by a detour.

“I think a lot of people think it’s a joke. But in a month and a half it could suddenly be a reality,” Northug told VG on Thursday about his plans. The Norwegian’s request to change citizenship is currently being processed by ÖSV, and the Ministry of Sports has already been informed, the association said. There is also contact with the Norwegian association, it is not clear whether his request will be accepted smoothly.

Northug last worked as a TV pundit and spoke for the first time about his plans to represent Austria. “The association is thrilled,” said Northug, who remained an active athlete after retiring six years ago. A move to Liechtenstein was also discussed, but that is no longer an option.

The request must now be confirmed by the ÖSV before further steps are taken, Northug stressed. “It will be brighter in a month.” Northug won his last gold medals at the 2015 World Championships in Falun.