Ex-girlfriend of Norwegian Olympian speaks out after public cheating confession

Moments after claiming bronze in Tuesday’s 20-kilometer men’s biathlon, Norway’s Sturla Holm Laegreid used the spotlight to make an emotional confession about infidelity and lingering feelings for his former partner. On Wednesday, she responded.

Speaking on condition of anonymity to the Norwegian tabloid VG, the woman said it will be “hard to forgive” Laegreid for cheating on her — and for turning his confession into a public moment following his medal-winning performance.

“I did not choose to be put in this position, and it hurts to have to be in it,” the publication quoted her as saying. “We have had contact, and he is aware of my opinions on this.”

VG said it has been in contact with Laegreid, but he chose not to comment on the woman’s statements.

After earning bronze, Laegreid admitted through tears to Norwegian broadcaster NRK that the moment felt incomplete without his former partner, recounting the relationship and his mistake.

“Six months ago I met the love of my life. The world’s most beautiful, sweetest person. And three months ago I made the biggest mistake of my life and cheated on her,” Laegreid said.

Laegreid said he had disclosed the affair to her only a week earlier. In her comments to VG, the woman expressed her gratitude to those who have helped her navigate the fallout.

“To my family and friends who have embraced me and supported me during this time. Also to everyone else who has thought of me and sympathized, without knowing who I am,” she said to VG.

During a news conference, Laegreid explained why he chose to make his personal situation public on live television. He reflected on the decision, saying he wanted to share what he had done in the hope that his former partner might recognize “what she really means to me.” On the aftermath, he added, “I hope I don’t make anything worse for her, but maybe it can help. I don’t know, I hope there’s a happy ending.”

According to The Associated Press, the Norwegian team later shared a statement in which Laegreid conceded that bringing up his private life may have overshadowed what was meant to be a triumphant moment for Norwegian biathlon. He added an apology to teammate Johan-Olav Botn, who captured gold.

“My apologies go to Johan-Olav, who deserved all the attention after winning gold,” the statement said. “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.