Norway's women's relay team secured an unexpected gold medal at the Olympics, delivering a flawless performance in stark contrast to Sweden's misfortune. The Swedish team, heavily favored to win, faced a shocking collapse when Ebba Andersson fell twice during the race, effectively sealing the fate of the competition. The Norwegian athletes, including Kristine Austgulen Fosnæs, Astrid Øyre Slind, Karoline Simpson-Larsen, and Heidi Weng, showcased remarkable skill and teamwork throughout the event.

In the critical moments following Andersson's fall, Norway capitalized on the opportunity, as Heidi Weng confidently completed the final leg of the relay, crossing the finish line with a significant lead. This victory marked not only a milestone for the Norwegian team but also their first Olympic medals for all four athletes involved. The team's triumph comes after a string of successes in recent competitions, raising hopes and expectations for the Norwegian delegation in future events.

Meanwhile, the Swedish team's hopes for gold were dashed, as they had previously dominated other races in the championships. After Andersson's fall, Frida Karlsson, Sweden's new leader, faced a daunting challenge, finishing well behind Norway. The incident not only highlighted the unpredictability of competitive sports but also set the stage for a renewed rivalry between the two Nordic nations as they head into upcoming championships and Olympic events.