November 23, 2010 – Despite being downplayed as a minor illness, the bug that caused Norwegian XC star Petter Northug to leave the FIS races at Norway’s season opener in Beitostoelen, early two weekends ago and then miss the World Cup opener in Gallivare, Sweden last weekend is threatening his start in Kuusamo, Finland according to nrksport.no.

Despite medical testing, the cause of Northug’s fatigue and lack of power is still unknown, Norwegian National Team Coach Morten Aa Djupvik told NRK. According to Norwegian newspaper VG, the final decision about Northug’s appearance in Kuusamo will be made on Wednesday – read more HERE.

Vittoz Injured
Another favourite will be missing from the men’s starting line in Kuusamo this weekend. Vincent Vittoz (FRA), 2005 World Champion, reportedly tore his adductor in his left thigh during the relay in Gallivare this past weekend and will be unable to compete in the upcoming World Cup. If all goes well, Vittoz plans on returning to competition in mid-December, according to FIS Cross Country – read more  HERE.