The withdrawal has nothing to do with the criticism of the cooperation, according to Vasaloppet's CEO Johan Eriksson.
No, not from our side, at least, we have been confident in this cooperation all the time. Preem has been an important part of our cooperation, both when it comes to putting Sweden in motion, but also in helping us with our transformation work when it comes to emissions and so on, says Eriksson.
Prior to this year's long-distance ski race in March, around 50 skiers, including national team skiers Marcus Grate and Oskar Svensson, signed a petition against Vasaloppet, which they believed was used for greenwashing by cooperative companies (Preem and Volvo Cars) whose products are responsible for large emissions.
End of protests?
In recent years, climate activists have also protested and tried to disrupt Vasaloppet.
Will you be spared such protests now?
Yes, I naturally wish for that, as it has felt sad that it should affect the sport and the athletes who devote their lives to training and getting better. It is a hope we have, but it is difficult for us to say, says Johan Eriksson.
”About time”
The environmental organization New Weather is very pleased that Preem is leaving Vasaloppet.
”It's about time that Vasaloppet and Preem parted ways. It's a major victory for everyone who has fought to put an end to winter sports advertising for oil companies. It's bizarre that winter sports still make advertisements that contribute to fueling the climate crisis", says Anna Jonsson, New Weather Sweden, in a press release.
Johan Eriksson says he is not worried about one of Vasaloppet's main sponsors jumping ship.
We have a very strong offer to our partners and those we may enter into partnerships with in the future, he says.
