Charlotte Kalla, Frida Karlsson and the other stars of the ski team are winners even before the racing season has started.
In any case, financially.
For this season, the union raises the compensation for each rider by 67 percent, from SEK 120,000 to SEK 200,000, which Aftonbladet was the first to report.
- If you want to make money in this sport, you really have to be among the very best, then you can make good money. So it is clear that it is a security that you get a little more economical, even if there are no huge sums. But getting better is nevertheless important, and even more important for the young people who come up, Calle Halfvarsson tells TT.
In addition, the bonus system is redone. Previously, only one first place has given bonus - this season the riders are rewarded even if they finish second or third in the World Cup. A first place is still worth 50,000, while a second place will now be rewarded with SEK 30,000 and a third place with 20,000.
- It is also good. A person who "just" finishes in second and third places in one season has nevertheless made a damn good season - should it then go completely without? That's pretty tough, says Halfvarsson.
Another change is that the collective bonus - to the entire national team if they have taken over 30 pallet places - is redone and becomes individually adapted.
- It is at the request of the riders themselves. They want the individual part to be increased, and we do that, says Ola Strömberg, acting longitudinal manager, to TT.