Iivo Niskanen is a three-time Olympic champion and a leading figure in cross-country skiing, known for his consistent performance in World Cup events and major championships. After securing a gold medal in the men’s team sprint at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics alongside Sami Jauhojärvi, Iivo Niskanen solidified his position as a formidable force in cross-country skiing. That same year, he earned an impressive victory in the 15-kilometre classic race at the U23 World Championships in Val di Fiemme, taking the title with a significant lead. His breakthrough performances led to him sharing the prestigious Finnish Sports Personality of the Year award in 2014.

Niskanen continued his ascent by claiming his first individual World Cup victory in a 15 km classic race on home soil in Ruka, Finland, later that year. Niskanen further established his status as a top contender at the 2017 World Championships in Lahti, where he earned a bronze medal in the team sprint before becoming the world champion in the 15 km classical event. The 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics marked another significant milestone as he became the individual Olympic champion in the men’s 50-kilometre classical race. His exceptional achievements were recognized with the Finnish Sports Personality of the Year award in both 2017 and 2018.

These victories earned him his fourth Finnish Sports Personality of the Year award in 2022. In 2023, Niskanen added to his World Championships medal tally with a silver medal in the 4 × 10 km relay in Planica. As he continues to represent the Puijon Hiihtoseura club, his consistent presence on the podium, both individually and in team events, underscores his enduring influence and dominance in professional cross-country skiing. His remarkable career is set to be further honored with the prestigious Holmenkollen Medal in 2025.