Alexander Bolshunov of Russia celebrates victory in Lillehammer ©Getty Images

Alexander Bolshunov usurped a strong Norwegian contingent to claim the honours at the International Ski Federation (FIS) Cross-Country World Cup event in Lillehammer. 

In the men's 30 kilometres, Johannes Høsflot Klæbo had been tipped for glory in front of his home crowd after triumphing in Ruka last weekend.

However, it was Russian Bolshunov who topped the podium at Birkebeineren Ski Stadium, rounding the course in 1hr 17min 42.4sec to win by just two seconds.

The next five finishers came from Norway, with Hans Christer Holund claiming second spot in 1:17:44.6, as Høsflot Klæbo missed out on the podium.

Third place went to Emil Iversen in 1:17:50.3, with Høsflot Klæbo almost a minute further back, finishing in 1:18.39.8.

Therese Johaug lived up to her tag as favourite by leading home a Norwegian one-three in the women's 15km skiathlon event.

Ten-time world champion Johaug, who missed last year's Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang because of a doping ban, was the victor in last week's season-opener in Ruka, and she was the best of the field in Lillehammer.

Johaug clocked 42min 35.3sec, finishgin more than a minute clear of her nearest rival.

Jessica Diggins from the United States was second, in 43:43.6, with Heidi Weng of Norway claiming bronze in 43:54.4.

The FIS Cross-Country World Cup continues in Lillehammer tomorrow with the team relay events.