Just an hour before the planned start time, the news came that the classic five-mile was postponed for an hour.
In addition, it was only 30 km due to the strong wind gusts and the cold.
The changes stirred emotions and were criticized by several skiers.
Among other things, the British Andrew Musgrave called the decision "a fucking joke".
Bolshunov strongest
The one who handled the new conditions best was Alexander Bolshunov.
The Russian was in the lead throughout the race and before the end he made a jerk and created a small gap to the group behind.
No one was able to join and Bolshunov won before compatriot Ivan Yakimushkin and Norwegian Simen Hegstad Krüger.
Thus, Bolshunov has won three Olympic gold medals in Beijing.
He also has a silver and a bronze from the championship.
The text is updated.