There are significant changes on the horizon for Tour de Ski in the upcoming season. The preliminary schedule reveals a greatly simplified race format compared to the concept of the stage-based race series.

The final stage up the monster hill is the only thing that suggests this is more than just two expanded World Cup weekends in Italy.

The entire race series is condensed into two weekends in the same country. This is miles away from the original idea behind the Tour de Ski concept.

“Now it seems to be more like two extended World Cup weekends in Italy. It’s unfortunate and sad for cross-country skiing. I’m afraid the magic will disappear to a greater extent,” says sports commentator Birger Løfaldli from Adressa.

The race director of the International Ski Federation (FIS) says Tour de Ski 2025 will be held in two locations in Italy: Toblach and Val di Fiemme.

Athletes’ opinion about Tour de Ski 2025 changes

Elite athletes see both advantages and disadvantages to running the tour over two weekends in one country. On one hand, it becomes less spectacular, and fewer destinations get the opportunity to showcase themselves. But for the athletes and the environment, there are some advantages.

Martin Løwstrøm Nyenget believes a more compact Tour with less travel burden could increase the chance that the stars prioritize the race series. Previously, there have often been several profiles who have chosen to skip, especially in championship seasons.

“It’s very important to have as many of the best athletes as possible at the major events. I think all Norwegians have a plan to participate in the tour and most races even if it’s during championships,” says Nyenget to VG.

Other Changes from the Tour de Ski Preliminary Schedule

This winter saw two extensive World Cup rounds in North America, both of which garnered immense enthusiasm. But next season, there are no races planned outside of Europe.

Lillehammer and the German Oberstdorf are back on the schedule after a year’s hiatus.

Sweden, which had three World Cup rounds this winter, seems to only have one next season: Falun, while Gällivare and Östersund seem to be absent.

The fifty-kilometer race in Holmenkollen is discontinued, replaced with two distance races.

It was also announced that the city sprint in Drammen would be discontinued, but according to VG, things are now looking brighter for this event.

The schedule for the upcoming season and several winters ahead will be finalized and adopted during the FIS Spring Meeting. The meeting will be held in Slovenia from May 6th to 9th.

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