Feb 25 • 11:23 UTC 🇮🇹 Italy La Repubblica

From Klaebo's gold to Bodo, why the Norwegian model is the exact opposite of a miracle

The article examines why Norway excels in winter sports, contrasting it with potential sports powerhouses in Italy.

The piece discusses the remarkable success of Norway in winter sports, exemplified by athletes like Klaebo, highlighting its natural advantages due to geography and climate. The author draws a parallel with Italy's regions, such as Lazio and Campania, questioning if they could achieve similar feats under contrasting conditions. It emphasizes that Norway's dominance is not a miracle but a product of systematic investment in sports infrastructure, community support, and a culture that fosters winter athletics.

Moreover, the article critiques the notion that regions with different climatic conditions could suddenly become winter sports dominators without addressing foundational issues. The assumption rests on the idea that talent and resources alone suffice, ignoring how geography plays a critical role. The discussion further delves into how Norway's model includes an extensive grassroots approach and prioritizes year-round training opportunities, which are often lacking in warmer regions.

In conclusion, the contrast between Norway and Italy serves to illustrate the importance of context in sports development. While the potential for talent exists anywhere, the alignment of environmental factors, community engagement, and strategic investment is crucial for success in winter sports. The article ultimately calls for a deeper understanding of what contributes to sports excellence in various contexts.

📡 Similar Coverage