Kristine Stavås Skistad leaves Konnerud IL following coach allegations

Norwegian cross-country skiing star Kristine Stavås Skistad is leaving her childhood club, Konnerud IL, following allegations of power abuse and manipulation against her former coach, Lage Sofienlund.

Skistad accused Sofienlund of manipulation, abuse of power, and failing to provide written agreements or financial settlements during their five-year collaboration. While the Norwegian Ski Federation's ethics committee and the Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Confederation of Sports (NIF) concluded their investigations without legal action, the outcome has prompted Skistad to change clubs.

Konnerud IL announced that after a review conducted by the law firm Svensson Nøkleby, the club has issued a written warning to Sofienlund. The club stated that the matter is now closed and that the coach will remain in his position, noting that the disciplinary action will have no further consequences for his employment. Skistad, who has been training largely on her own since breaking ties with Sofienlund earlier this year, will join Mjøndalen.