A press release from Ferdakompaniid adds that the driver of the coach was correctly licensed and has been a coach driver for many years. Neither the owners of the vehicle nor the driver had drawn attention to anything wrong with the coach’s wheels, brakes or engine before the accident took place. The Mercedes coach is 28 years-old and is fitted with seatbelts. It is thought the coach is beyond repair.

The statement says the company’s staff members are very upset and anxious over the accident.

First indications from police investigators are that the coach’s brakes failed; but the investigation has not made any formal conclusions yet.

Ferdakompaniid president, Bertrand Jouanne and colleagues flew to Akureyri as soon as possible after the accident to assist the French and Swiss victims. Jouanne thanked rescue workers for their good work under difficult circumstances.

He said that relatives in France and Switzerland have been contacted and the legal rights of the tourists are being assessed, including repatriation, diplomatic services and travel insurance claims.

The passengers, several with broken bones, are expected to be flown home direct from Akureyri by air ambulance as soon as possible. Only one passenger needed intensive care treatment in Reykjavik, and she has now been moved to a normal ward to recover.

Photo: RÚV.is

The Norwegians currently languish at the bottom of their World Cup qualifying group, taking only two points from three games. The two points came from two draws, and “The results have given a negative focus ahead of every match.” Hareide commented.

In his five years in charge of Norway’s national side, Hareide has yet to qualify for any major competition since he took over in 2003. “In that kind of situation the national coach must be strong and clear and have full batteries. I’m a person who either must give full gas, or nothing. When I no longer feel I can give full gas, it’s sensible to say so,” a tired-looking Hareide said in an interview reported by CNN sports.

The Norwegian Football Association is currently looking for his replacement, and will probably have to settle for a temporary coaching solution until someone can be found. The next World Cup qualifier for Norway is on 6 June against Macedonia, a side they should easily be able to beat.