CANMORE, Alta. — Three-time Olympian Ivan Babikov announced his retirement from cross-country competition Friday but he'll stay with the Canadian program as a national team coach.

Babikov will work specifically with Devon Kershaw and the men's World Cup level athletes based in Canmore, Alta., while also serving as B-team coach. He will also provide coaching support to the athletes in the Alberta World Cup Academy based at the Canmore Nordic Centre.

"I'm extremely excited," Babikov said in a release." Coaching is something I have always targeted as a goal of mine when I was ready to stop competing. It is my goal to share what I've learned and experienced throughout my career to help the younger athletes develop and the top guys achieve excellence.

"I really care so much about all of the Canadian athletes — from the development to elite level — and the success of this program. I hope I can play a small role in this team of highly dedicated coaches to help all of the athletes achieve their dreams."

Babikov, 35, finished fourth at the 2013 world championship and earned a fifth-place result at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. The Canmore resident had one victory on the final stage of the Tour de Ski in 2009 along with two other World Cup podium finishes.

"Ivan was a tireless athlete who was known for his relentless pursuit of excellence throughout his 10 years on the Canadian national ski team. I expect the same drive and determination from him in his coaching career," said high-performance director Tom Holland. "Trust and chemistry are key ingredients to any successful team. Ivan has always been one of the most respected athletes in our program.

"He brings tremendous experience and insight on what it takes to succeed on the World Cup. I believe that working alongside Louis (Bouchard), Ivan will be an extremely valuable tool to the success of our Team well into the future."

Bouchard has been a World Cup team coach over the last six years. He will take the lead coaching role for the World Cup squad leading to the 2018 Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

Bouchard will also continue his role as head coach of Alex Harvey and the Pierre Harvey Training Centre in Quebec.