The Ski Classics cross-country skiing circuit is set to launch a brand-new sprint event during the 2025/2026 season, marking a major addition to its traditional long-distance format.
Organizers announced on Tuesday that the inaugural Bedrichov Sprint will take place on the evening of Friday, January 30, 2026, in Bedrichov, Czech Republic. This 1.5-kilometer double-push sprint will be the first of its kind included in the Ski Classics calendar and will be held as part of the Jizerska 50 program.
The event will feature a new race format. Athletes will first compete in a timed qualification round. The top 14 competitors will then advance to the semi-finals, which will be divided into two heats of seven skiers. The top three finishers from each heat, along with the fastest non-qualifier (lucky loser), will move on to the final round of seven to compete for victory.
“This sprint race brings something fresh and exciting to the tour,” said Oskar Svärd, the newly appointed director of Ski Classics, in a statement. “It highlights a different set of skills and adds a new level of energy and speed to the competition.
We’re eager to see how the athletes adjust to this format and how it will impact the overall standings. Speed is an essential part of becoming a great cross-country skier.”
The introduction of the sprint marks a significant evolution in the Ski Classics series, traditionally known for endurance-based challenges. It is expected to draw attention for its fast-paced nature and potential to shake up rankings in a tour that increasingly values versatility.