The prestigious Tour de Ski cross-country skiing competition is set to launch this holiday season, beginning on Saturday, December 28, 2024, in Toblach, Italy, and running through to January 5, 2025. The event, which draws elite skiers from around the world, is renowned for its challenging and diverse courses, consisting of multiple stages testing the athletes' endurance and skill.
Among the notable competitors, Jessie Diggins, the reigning champion who made history as the first American woman to win the Tour de Ski, will be defending her title once again. Last season, Diggins pulled off remarkable performances culminating with her victory, but this year, she enters with even greater expectations as she looks to extend her dominance among the world’s best.
"Last season meant so much because it solidified how I can compete at the highest level and win," Diggins expressed earlier this month. "The Tour is like no other competition—it's grueling, and there's no hiding. You have to bring your best every single day. I'm excited for the new challenges we will face."
This year's Tour de Ski includes seven distinct races encompassing varied formats. The series kicks off on December 28 with freestyle sprints, followed by classic mass starts and interval races, progressing toward the challenging final climb at the Alpe Cermis. Alongside her, fellow competitors such as Sophia Laukli and the returning Olympic star Therese Johaug aim to seize the coveted title.
"I am prepared to make my mark during the Tour," said Laukli, who aims to improve on her previous finishes. "With the new Climber bib competition, it adds another layer of excitement. I can’t wait to showcase my skills on these challenging climbs!" The Climber bib rewards skiers who excel particularly on the uphill portions of the race, allowing them to gain bonus points and starting advantages throughout the event.
Unfortunately, not all competitors will make it to the start line. Katharina Hennig, the German skier who ranked 11th overall last season, announced her withdrawal from this year's event due to health concerns. “This decision wasn’t easy, but I need to prioritize my recovery and come back stronger for the World Championships,” Hennig noted on her social media account. The World Championships will be held next February and March in Trondheim, Norway.
"It’s tough when competitors we respect take time to recover, but the sport is demanding, and we have to listen to our bodies," said Diggins. She reflects on the challenges of the Tour, noting how the physical and mental hurdles create both trials and triumphs. "You just have to find what works for you as you go through the pain. You learn to be consistent and resilient, and that's what the Tour teaches you."
The competition will, of course, see strong participation from the Norwegian and Swedish contingents, led by the likes of Johaug, who has claimed the overall Tour triumph three times, and others. Johaug is focused on adding to her impressive tally of victories. “This Tour is significant for us. Competing on this stage brings excitement, and I am determined to continue showing up at my best," she said prior to the start of the event.
While the pressure mounts, interested spectators can look forward to the start times as well as coverage of each stage. Highlights of upcoming events include:
- Saturday, December 28: Sprint races (Freestyle) - Toblach, Italy
- Sunday, December 29: 15km Mass Start (Classic) - Toblach
- Tuesday, December 31: 20km Interval Start (Freestyle) - Toblach
- January 1, 2025: 15km Pursuit (Classic) - Toblach
- January 3, 2025: Sprint races (Classic) - Val di Fiemme
- January 4, 2025: 20km Skiathlon - Val di Fiemme
- January 5, 2025: 10km Mass Start and Final Climb - Val di Fiemme
The allure of the Tour de Ski lies not just within the speed but the tenacity, strategy, and willpower exhibited by each athlete determined to conquer the elements and their challengers. With gripping storylines, fierce rivalries, and the unpredictable nature of winter sports, the Tour is sure to deliver unforgettable moments for both fans and skiers alike this season.
Check local scheduling resources to keep track of exciting race times and follow your favorite athletes as they race against time and tests of endurance through the beautiful yet treacherous backdrops of Italy.
