Swedish Biathletes Blame 'Worst Skis Ever' on Waxing Team After Olympic Disappointment
Sweden's biathlon team has pointed the finger at their waxing technicians following a dismal performance in the men's mass start event at the Winter Olympics. The trio of Sebastian Samuelsson, Martin Ponsiluoma, and Jesper Nelin finished in 18th, 21st, and 26th places respectively, far from the medal contention they had hoped for.
Frustration on the Finish Line
Sebastian Samuelsson did not mince words when speaking to Swedish television after the race. "The skis were the worst I ever had. They were crap," he declared. "Today the glide from the skis was very bad ... I'm here to fight for medals, but today I go without." His teammates echoed similar sentiments, with the waxing team meeting the athletes at the finish line to offer immediate apologies for their misjudgment.
The Critical Role of Ski Waxing
Ski waxing is a pivotal element in race preparation for biathletes and cross-country skiers. The correct blend of wax must be tailored to specific snow conditions, temperature, and altitude to ensure optimal glide. When executed properly, it allows athletes to move swiftly across the course; when incorrect, it can feel like skiing through treacle.
- Different waxes are required for wet versus dry snow.
- Many waxes perform best at temperatures well below freezing.
- Sudden temperature increases can cause wax to become soft and sticky, significantly slowing skiers down.
Contrasting Fortunes on the Olympic Stage
While Sweden struggled, other nations excelled with their waxing strategies. Norway's Johannes Dale-Skjevdal, who hit all 20 of his shots for the first time in his career, secured the gold medal, with compatriot Sturla Holm Lægreid taking silver. France continued its tradition of providing superior skis, as Quentin Fillon Maillet claimed the bronze.
Swedish Athletes Show Forgiveness Amid Disappointment
Despite their frustration, the Swedish biathletes were relatively quick to forgive their waxing team. Martin Ponsiluoma remarked, "You just have to laugh at it. When you feel like you don't have the materials, you feel it would have taken 25 hits to beat Dale-Skjevdal today." Unfortunately for Ponsiluoma, the silver medallist from Beijing, there were only 20 targets available.
Jesper Nelin, who finished 26th, offered a philosophical perspective: "This kind of thing [with waxing] happens to all nations at some point and we have a very good waxing team, it's just not going well right now." He at least avoided a bizarre sprint finish for last place, a small consolation in an otherwise disappointing outing.
Sweden's Broader Olympic Performance in Biathlon
Ponsiluoma's gold in the men's pursuit remains Sweden's sole biathlon victory at the Milano Cortina Games, contributing to just three medals won in the event overall at the 2026 Winter Olympics. This latest setback highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the team, despite their status as frequent favourites in biathlon competitions.
