Sami Jauhojärvi has openly criticized Iivo Niskanen's competitive strategy, which prioritizes peaking for significant events like the Olympics while largely avoiding other races. He believes that this approach not only affects Niskanen's competitive readiness but also detracts from how he and perhaps fans perceive his current fitness levels. Jauhojärvi's concerns echo sentiments from other ski influencers who are calling into question the overall culture surrounding Finnish ski preparation.

Niskanen, a three-time Olympic champion, has experienced a difficult period recently, with his last two major competitions ending disappointingly. He missed the World Championships in Trondheim last winter due to illness, and now this has also adversely affected his aspirations for the upcoming Milan-Cortina Olympics. Critics argue that Niskanen’s long-term focus on single events, particularly those dictated by traditional skiing disciplines where he excels, may not provide the necessary competitive exposure to prepare adequately for championship success.

The prevailing attitude among skiing authorities and commentators is that Niskanen’s strategy of focusing predominantly on high-stakes contests can leave athletes vulnerable, especially when unforeseen challenges arise. It appears that the Finnish skiing community is at a crossroads, with some advocating for a more diversified approach to competition that could foster greater resilience and readiness in their top athletes. This ongoing debate could significantly impact future training and preparation strategies in Finnish ski sports.