Norwegian Biathlete Sturla Holm Laegreid Reflects on Personal Challenges After Olympic Bronze Win

The former girlfriend of Norwegian Olympic athlete Sturla Holm Laegreid has spoken out after Laegreid publicly acknowledged his mistakes following his participation in an event at the Winter Olympics. Laegreid confessed that he was unfaithful three months into their six-month relationship. During an interview with a Norwegian media outlet, his ex-girlfriend expressed that she does not intend to reconcile with him.

“It is hard to forgive. Even after a declaration of love in front of the whole world. I did not choose to end up in this situation and it hurts to have to be in it. We have been in contact and he is aware of my views on this,” she stated when speaking to VG, a Norwegian media outlet.

The resilient woman acknowledged the support she received, saying, “I am grateful to my family and friends who have embraced me and supported me during this time. Also to everyone else who has thought of me and sympathized, without knowing who I am.”

She remained anonymous in her statements to the media.

Laegreid earned a bronze medal in the men’s biathlon event during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Anterselva, Italy. He became emotional and labeled his infidelity as “the biggest mistake” of his life.

“There’s someone I wanted to share it with who might not be watching today. Six months ago, I met the love of my life — the most beautiful and kindest person in the world. Three months ago, I made my biggest mistake and cheated on her,” Laegreid admitted to NRK, a Norwegian broadcasting network.

The athlete expressed that sharing his mistake has made the past week “the worst week” of his life. Laegreid described the woman as “his gold medal in life” and reflected on how sports have shifted in their importance to him following this personal revelation.

During a news conference, Laegreid explained the reason for his public confession. “It was the choice I made. We make different choices during our life and that’s how we make life,” he explained, suggesting that his disclosure was an attempt to reveal his true feelings.

Laegreid also expressed concern about potentially overshadowing his teammate Johan-Olav Botn, who won a gold medal. Reflecting on the interview, Laegreid said, “Now I hope I didn’t ruin Johan’s day. Maybe it was really selfish of me to give that interview. So yeah, I don’t know. I was, I’m a bit, I don’t know … I’m not really here mentally. So yeah, we will see what happens.”

Laegreid remains uncertain about the future and continues to grapple with the consequences of his actions, both personally and professionally.