The world’s longest cross-country ski race, Nordenskiöldsloppet, returns to the Arctic landscapes of Jokkmokk this weekend, once again pushing athletes to their absolute limits over a daunting 220-kilometer course.

As part of the Ski Classics Challengers circuit, Nordenskiöldsloppet stands apart as a true test of endurance, resilience, and mental strength rather than pure speed.

Rooted in history, Nordenskiöldsloppet, a Ski Classics Challengers event, traces its origins back to 1884, when explorer Adolf Erik Nordenskiöld sought to demonstrate that long-distance travel on skis was not only possible but efficient across Arctic terrain. Today’s race follows that same spirit, guiding participants through remote wilderness, vast open landscapes, and long stretches where isolation becomes as much a factor as fatigue.

This year’s edition presents a complex picture in terms of conditions. A majority of the course—approximately 65 percent—is reported to be in excellent shape, offering firm tracks and fast skiing. However, several sections remain more challenging, with limited snow coverage and parts lacking prepared classic tracks. These stretches are expected to test technique and ski handling, particularly as athletes begin to tire deep into the race. Adding further uncertainty, fresh snowfall is forecast during race day, a factor that could slow the pace and increase the physical demands of an already grueling challenge.

Strong start list

The start list reflects the unique character of the race, combining elite Ski Classics athletes with seasoned endurance specialists. Among the notable names is Thomas Bing, a strong Pro Team athlete capable of high speed but now facing a completely different kind of test over ultra distance. Italy’s Lorenzo Busin also lines up, while a traditionally strong Czech contingent adds further depth to the field, bringing experience from long-distance events and a reputation for resilience.

There is also a clear Finnish presence in the race, adding an extra layer of interest. Valtteri Härkönen and Teemu Virtanen, both top ten finishers last year, return with valuable experience of the course and its demands. Virtanen, notably, is a two-time Guinness World Record holder in 24-hour Nordic skiing, underlining the level of endurance required to succeed in an event of this magnitude. Alongside them, Jussi Häkkinen adds further depth to the Finnish lineup.

In the women’s competition, defending champion Sofia Lindberg returns after an impressive victory last year, aiming to repeat her success. She will be challenged by a strong international field that includes Karolína Grohová, one of the standout names from Central Europe, alongside several other experienced long-distance specialists from Scandinavia and beyond, all aiming to master the demanding Arctic course.

On the men’s side, Johan Lövgren returns as the reigning champion, but he will not be alone among last year’s top contenders. Klas Nilsson, who finished second in 2025, is also on the start line, setting the stage for a renewed battle at the front of the race. Over such an extreme distance, however, the competition is rarely straightforward, and pacing, energy management, and equipment choices are likely to prove decisive factors.

Unique experience

What makes Nordenskiöldsloppet unique is not only its length but the nature of the challenge it presents. Starting in the early hours and stretching far into the day—and for many, into the night—the race demands constant adaptation. Skiers must contend with changing snow conditions, physical fatigue, nutritional management, and the psychological strain of spending hours in remote Arctic terrain. It is a competition where small mistakes can have significant consequences and where experience often proves as valuable as physical strength.

As the field prepares to set off from Jokkmokk, anticipation is building for another edition of one of the sport’s most extraordinary events. With a strong international lineup, variable conditions, and the ever-present challenge of distance, the 2026 Nordenskiöldsloppet promises to deliver a compelling test of endurance skiing at its highest level. A full race report will follow once the athletes have completed their journey through the Arctic wilderness.

More information about Nordenskiöldsloppet can be found HERE

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