Ski Classics announces the appointment of Oskar Svärd as its new Director, effective June 2025. He succeeds David Nilsson, who has led the development of the Tour since its inception and will continue in his role as CEO of Wsportsmedia and as a Board Member of Ski Classics.

After more than 15 seasons at the helm, David Nilsson is stepping aside from the day-to-day management of the Tour.

“In 2008, I started with a small idea that became a project that grew into Ski Classics. After 17 years of fun, challenges, and hard work, I have decided that now is the right time to hand over the torch as Director of Ski Classics to a new but experienced person with fresh eyes, a fresh voice, and the same passion for Ski Classics,” says David Nilsson, and adds:

“Oskar is a great person for the job. He has, of course, great experience as a skier, and is a Legend in Ski Classics, with victories in many of the events in the Tour, including three Vasaloppet wins. Oskar has also gained experience as a Team Director from different Pro Teams over the years. In addition, he has been an expert commentator on Eurosport and Race Director in Ski Classics.”

“As Director of Ski Classics, it is important to understand the different perspectives that athletes, Pro Teams, events, media, partners and the Tour may have. Oskar also has a deep passion for Ski Classics and long-distance skiing, as well as other sports such as cycling, orienteering, and adventure racing. I’m very happy to hand over the Tour keys to Oskar, and I am confident that Ski Classics is in safe hands and can continue to develop further!”

“From a small idea in 2008 to a global long-distance skiing series with 14 Pro Tour and over 70 Challenger events, from Antarctica via Greenland to China, it’s been a remarkable journey. I’m grateful to every athlete, event organizer, team staff, partner, and colleague who contributed along the way.”

Oskar Svärd brings a wealth of experience to the role. A three-time Vasaloppet winner and long-time contributor to Ski Classics as an athlete, Pro Team Director for Team Coop and Team Eksjöhus, and expert commentator on Eurosport, Svärd has been involved with the Tour since its early years.

“It’s a great honor to take on this role, especially knowing the legacy David has built. I’ve been passionate about long-distance skiing for so long, and now I get to work full-time to help it grow even further. My focus in the beginning will be to listen to athletes, events, and the Pro Team staff to try to get all perspectives of where we are and where to go from here,” says Oskar Svärd, and adds:

“Ski Classics has developed into a strong, global Tour with more races, stronger teams, and more professional athletes. My goal is to continue that momentum, to reach new nations, support our organizers and teams, and make our broadcasts even more engaging for fans around the World.”

In his new role, Svärd will oversee both the Ski Classics Pro Tour and the Challengers series, working closely with the team to further strengthen Ski Classics’ global presence and sporting quality.

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The calendar for the Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII will be announced in May 2025. Stay tuned!