Strong Swedish Performances in XCC World Championship Qualifying

The job is done – Sweden has secured its spots in the XCC World Championship finals this afternoon. Leo Lounela, Edvin Elofsson, and Olympic champion Jenny Rissveds are all set to represent the nation in what promises to be a thrilling showdown in Zermatt.

For the women’s elite, Sweden already had the right number of riders qualified for the final. On the men’s U23 side, it came down to a high-stakes qualifier – and the young Swedes delivered.

U23 Qualifier Highlights 🚴♂️

After weeks of focused high-altitude training at just over 1,500 meters – mirroring the 1,600-meter elevation of Zermatt – Leo Lounela showed top form. He impressed in Qualifying Heat 2, finishing third just 12 seconds behind the winner.

Teammate Edvin Elofsson also secured his spot in the final, finishing 14th in the same heat and proving he’s back in better shape after struggling in previous World Cup races.

Unfortunately, Nils Johansson, Sweden’s XCO national champion, didn’t have the legs today and missed the final, placing 24th. With a tough starting position, his focus will now shift toward the Olympic distance event.

Coach’s Take 🎙️

“Good day in qualifying. Edvin showed that he is back in better shape than during the last few World Cups and Leo is having a solid race at the front. It will be fun to be there tomorrow – I’m looking forward to some fast-paced competitions,” said national team captain David Eriksson.

Qualifying Heat 2 Results – U23 Men

1. Gustav Pedersen (DEN) – 19:08

2. Finn Treudler (GER) +0:02

3. Leo Lounela (SWE) +0:12

4. Zorak Paille (FRA) +0:14

5. Paul Schehl (GER) +0:17

6. Owen Clark (GBR) +0:19

7. Edvin Elofsson (SWE) +0:34

8. Nils Johansson (SWE) +1:13
   

🔥 With Rissveds already in the women’s elite final and two U23 riders pushing through qualifying, Sweden is well-positioned for an exciting race day in Zermatt.

#GoSweden #XCCWorlds #CCNSport

Photo credit to Piper Albrecht