Sturla Holm Laegreid’s ex-girlfriend responds after Norwegian biathlete’s stunning infidelity admission

Anterselva, Italy: After a stunning confession on live television that he had cheated on his girlfriend, Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Laegreid said overnight he regrets going public about his private life at Milano Cortina 2026. His former girlfriend, meanwhile, has spoken out about the athlete’s admission to Norwegian media.

In an interview with Norwegian network NRK after winning bronze in the men’s 20-kilometre individual race on Tuesday (Wednesday AEDT) Laegreid revealed on camera that he had been unfaithful “to the love of my life”, in an apparent attempt to win her back.

However, his tearful confession didn’t go down well with critics, who said it took the focus away from teammate Johan-Olav Botn, who shot clean to win the gold medal in the event.

“I deeply regret sharing this personal story on what was a day of celebration for Norwegian biathlon,” Laegreid said in a statement issued by the Norwegian team on Wednesday (overnight in Australia).

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“I am not quite myself these days, and not thinking clearly,” he said. “My apologies go to Johan-Olav, who deserved all the attention after winning gold. They also go to my ex-girlfriend, who unwillingly ended up in the media spotlight. I hope she is doing well. I cannot undo this but I will now put it behind me and focus on the Olympics. I will not answer any further questions about this.”

Norwegian newspaper VG said it had been in contact with Laegreid’s ex-girlfriend, who appeared unmoved by his remorseful comments on live TV.

“It’s hard to forgive [him]. Even after a declaration of love in front of the whole world,” VG quoted her as saying. “I didn’t choose to be put in this position and it’s painful to have to endure it. We’ve been in contact and he’s aware of my feelings about this.”

The newspaper didn’t name her, saying she wasn’t looking for attention and wanted to remain anonymous.