The 30-year-old led Ski Classics from December until there were two races left in April. Now Kasper Stadaas opens up about the overall leader’s jersey that slipped away after 17 weeks in yellow and the steps he is taking toward the next season.

How bitter was it to lose the overall leader’s jersey with two races remaining?

“It’s probably bitter when I become old and gray if I never win a yellow jersey, but that wasn’t the goal for this season. But I’m an extremely poor loser, and when I didn’t win any of the big races this season, and I didn’t win the yellow jersey, I felt like I was left with a bit of a black eye”, says Stadaas to Langrenn.com, and elaborates:

“I have a goal as a skier to win all four major races, that is, Marcialonga, Jizerska, Vasaloppet, and Birken. And I still lack three of them. I would have liked to pick one of them this year. But it’s just more fuel for the fire. Now, I will train better, wilder, and crazier than ever. Do some real work and develop myself.”

Also Read: Stopped strength training: “Never been stronger”

Are you doing anything different in the preparation this year compared to previous seasons?

“Yes. I’m not going to run an ultramarathon mountain race five days before the Blink festival. But I plan to do even more adventure workouts. Cycling, running, and roller skiing for 12 to 24 hours straight. I do this to keep my motivation up. I like to be out in nature and feel what my body has to offer.”

The story continues below.

Do you get anyone else to join you for such sessions?

“Yes, I think I can get some friends to join this year too. Luckily, I have some crazy friends,” says Stadaas.

What kind of people are tempted by such things?

“Some are former cyclists, some are former skiers, and some are biathletes. Among others, Endre Strømsheim. He is absolutely amazing, so it’s incredibly fun to play and chat with him.”

The story continues below.

Which of the four Grand Classics do you rate the highest?

“I have to be a bit careful ranking them, so people don’t start blocking me in the winter. But I really like Marcialonga. That race suits me well. It has a good length, a good finish, an Italian atmosphere, and cannon fire in addition. It doesn’t get any cooler than that. It would be extremely cool to stand shirtless at La Stua (restaurant in the finish town Cavalese, ed.) with the wreath around my neck. The dream of that is what gets me out training when my motivation might not be at its peak.”

The story continues below.

Who do you think will be the toughest competitors next season?

“I expect that newly-in-love Emil Persson has a lot to redeem. He won nine races last winter and none this year. Young Amund Riege is absolutely amazing. And then there are these young French guys Thomas Joly and Jeremy Royer. If it’s not just baguette and pain au chocolat for them this summer, then I think they can absolutely be dangerous,” says Kasper Stadaas to Langrenn.com.

What will be the main goal next winter: Winning races or overall jerseys?

“I think it’s fun to win races. The most important thing for me is to have fun.”

Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVI

The Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVI is set to captivate ski enthusiasts with its exciting lineup of events. The upcoming season, spanning 14 events across 10 event weekends in 6 different countries, promises an inspiring showcase of skill, determination, and fierce competition. 

Read More: Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVI