In a surprising announcement from the Finnish skiing team, Kerttu Niskanen has been left off the women's sprint relay team, with Jasmin Kähärä set to pair with Jasmi Joensuu instead. This decision comes despite earlier speculation that Niskanen would be the partner for Joensuu. Skiing expert Harri Kirvesniemi commented on the implications of the team selection, particularly considering the grueling nature of the relay's 1.5-kilometer circuit, which will be completed three times.

The selection is believed to hinge on the athletes' abilities to compete at high speeds against strong teams from Sweden, Germany, and Norway. Kirvesniemi pointed out that Niskanen's pace might not be sufficient to keep up with these top competitors, as her performance could struggle during the initial relay legs. In contrast, Kähärä has shown potential to stay in contention for the lead spots, making her a more strategic choice for the team.

This decision highlights the intense competition within the Finnish skiing team and raises questions about Niskanen's future in the sport. As the dates for the event approach, the team and its supporters will be watching closely to see how the dynamics play out in the relay and if Kähärä can fulfill the expectations set upon her.