On 19-20 September, the Swedish Championships in medium and long distance will be decided in Gothenburg, and on 10-11 October, it's time for the Swedish Championships in sprint distance and sprint relay in Örebro.

- There will be very interesting competitions, and a bit difficult to tip because they have not competed in a long time. The simple tip is of course that Tove Alexandersson and Gustav Bergman win, but I am also excited to see if any younger abilities can challenge. For example, Sanna Fasth and Isac von Krusenstierna, who can both become really strong in the coming years, says SVT's orienteering expert Mats Troeng.

 - It feels fantastic fun that we get to these competitions and that everyone will now be able to follow the races on SVT. It is extremely valuable, partly for everyone who loves good TV sports and everyone who likes orienteering, partly for the orientation as a TV sport. All international competitions have been canceled and for continuity it is very important that we now have our Swedish Championships competitions on SVT's schedule, says Susanne Söderholm, head of the Swedish Orienteering Federation.

Significantly higher status than normal

The summer of 2020 would have included both a World Cup and a European Championship in orienteering. Both events were canceled due to the ongoing corona pandemic, which makes the Swedish Championships the highlight of the season for even the very best Swedish orienteers.

- For the national team runners, the Swedish Championships are usually a little lower priority compared to the international championships. But now it may be the only chance you get to compete at a high level this season, so the status of the competitions will be significantly higher than normal, says SVT's orienteering expert Mats Troeng.

SVT broadcasts live two days from the SM competitions Gothenburg and two days from Örebro. The competitions are commented on by Jacob Hård and Mats Troeng.

- We are very happy to be able to show the Swedish Championships in orienteering. We have seen for a long time that there is a great interest among the audience for the sport, some of the biggest names have really resonated with the general sports audience. In addition, TV production has taken great strides in recent years, orienteering has become a really good and exciting TV sport, says SVT Sports project manager Max Bursell.