Norwegian Skiing Star Klaebo Sustains Concussion in World Cup Crash

Klaebo, a six-time Olympic gold medalist, will take time off to recover.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:57pm

Norwegian cross-country skiing star Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo said he sustained a concussion from a fall in a World Cup race in Drammen, Norway. Klaebo, one of the stars of the recent Milan Cortina Games, posted a photo of himself from a hospital bed and said he would 'take some days off' to recover after his crash involving U.S. skier Ben Ogden.

Why it matters

Klaebo is one of the most dominant cross-country skiers in the world, having won a record six gold medals at the recent Winter Olympics. Any injury, especially a concussion, could impact his performance and participation in upcoming events like the World Cup finals.

The details

The crash happened in a semifinal heat of the men's sprint competition in Drammen. Ogden lost his balance and fell across the skis of Klaebo, who fell backward and hit his head on the snow. Klaebo said he would 'take some days off from both training and the internet' to ensure his recovery.

  • The crash occurred on March 12, 2026 during a World Cup race in Drammen, Norway.
  • The World Cup finals are scheduled to take place next week in Lake Placid, New York.

The players

Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo

A Norwegian cross-country skiing star who has won a record six gold medals at the recent Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina.

Ben Ogden

An American cross-country skier who was involved in the crash with Klaebo during the World Cup race in Drammen.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Took a fall yesterday and hit my head pretty hard, but luckily everything is all good in the hood.”

— Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo

“Ended up with a concussion so I'll take some days off from both training and the internet just to make sure everything settles properly. Only got one head, so have to take good care of it.”

— Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo

What’s next

Klaebo's status for the World Cup finals next week in Lake Placid, New York, is unclear as he recovers from the concussion.

The takeaway

This injury highlights the risks and challenges faced by elite athletes, even those at the top of their sport. Klaebo's cautious approach to his recovery underscores the importance of prioritizing health and safety, especially when it comes to head injuries.