Norwegian cross-country skiing sensation Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo made history on Friday the 13th as he clinched his eighth gold medal at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. The 29-year-old secured victory in the men’s 10-kilometer interval start race, marking his third gold at the 2026 Games.
Klaebo now shares the Winter Games gold medal record with retired Norwegian athletes Marit Bjoergen, Bjoern Daehlie, and Ole Einar Bjoerndalen. Embracing the superstition-defying date, Klaebo reflected on his personal connection to Friday the 13th, having proposed to his girlfriend on the same date last year.
Expressing his affinity for the supposedly ill-fated day, Klaebo stated, “I think I like Friday the 13th. It’s a good day.” Throughout the Olympics, Klaebo has maintained a winning streak, culminating in his latest gold medal achievement.
The victory held special significance for Klaebo, given his preference for competing against rivals rather than against the clock in solo races. Overcoming challenges, Klaebo’s strategic approach and exceptional performance solidified his place among elite athletes in the record books.
In a thrilling race that tested his endurance, Klaebo finished 4.9 seconds ahead of Mathis Desloges of France and 14 seconds in front of fellow Norwegian Einar Hedegart. Celebrating his remarkable accomplishment, Klaebo expressed gratitude for executing his race tactics effectively and preserving energy for crucial moments.
Meanwhile, the French contingent celebrated Desloges’ silver medal win, underscoring the hard work and dedication that propelled the young athlete to success in his Olympic debut. Against the picturesque backdrop of the Dolomite mountains, competitors navigated the course under clear skies and mild temperatures.
Organizers’ decision to treat the course with salt ahead of the race favored Klaebo’s performance, as he capitalized on his early start position. The jubilant atmosphere was palpable among Norwegian supporters, with flags waving and messages of support flooding in for the record-breaking athlete.
Praising Klaebo’s relentless commitment to excellence, fans and officials lauded his achievements both on and off the track. As Klaebo’s success continues to soar, admirers from around the world applaud his dedication and drive for greatness.
In other results, Canadian athletes Tom Stephen, Remi Drolet from Rossland, B.C., and Max Hollmann from Thunder Bay, Ont., put up solid performances in the event, with Stephen finishing 9th and the others securing respectable placements.