In mid-July, ProXCskiing.com unveiled that Gustav Eriksson will race for Team Robinson Trentino, an Italian Pro Team, next season. Here Eriksson talks about why he wants to race at the Ski Classics Pro Tour and his expectations for Season XV.

Gustav Eriksson from Mora, Sweden, has signed for the Italian squad Team Robinson Trentino. The idea of ​​racing at the Ski Classics Pro Tour came after this year’s Vasaloppet.

“I have always thought it was nice to watch the Ski Classic and have raced a few Vasaloppets. After this year’s Vasaloppet, I thought it might be nice to try something new. That’s why I thought taking the leap and testing a full season with Ski Classics was perfect,” says Gustav to Langd.se.

How did you get in touch with Team Robinson Trentino?

“It was through a friend called Gilberto Panisi. He is from Italy but has lived in Falun for many years. He has been on their team, so I contacted Bruno Debertolis, the Pro Team Director.”

There will be a total focus on Ski Classics for Gustav, who will make his first season with a long-distance focus.

“I will race the entire Ski Classics program this winter. That will be the main focus. But I have also intended to race the premiere and a few races at the Swedish Championships together with IFK Mora SK (ski club).”

Which race are you most looking forward to?

“Vasaloppet is the biggest race in Ski Classics, and it’s a special feeling to race. I am really looking forward to it. In addition to Vasaloppet, it will also be nice to try many new races and new arenas.”

What are your expectations for the season?

“For me, it feels very nice to do something I haven’t done before. Try to train differently and to race many new races in new places. Getting new challenges feels motivating!”

What are your goals for the season?

“It is challenging to set goals for the season as I haven’t done many of the races before, but I hope to be able to participate and challenge some. At first, it will be a test of progress, and hopefully, things will get better and better throughout the season,” concludes Gustav Eriksson.

Also Read: Former Swedish national team skier joins Team Robinson Trentino

Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XV (2023/2024)

• Event 1: December 9, 2023 – Bad Gastein PTT, Austria, 15km
• Event 2: December 10, 2023 – Bad Gastein Criterium, Austria, 35km
• Event 3: December 16, 2023 – La Venosta Criterium, Italy, 35km 
• Event 4: December 17, 2023 – La Venosta ITT, Italy, 10km
• Event 5: January 13, 2024 – Pustertaler Ski Marathon, Italy, 62km
• Event 6: January 20, 2024 – Engadin La Diagonela, Switzerland, 55km
• Event 7: January 28, 2024 – Marcialonga, Italy, 70km
• Event 8: February 11, 2024 – Jizerská50, Czech Republic, 50km
• Event 9: February 17, 2024 – Grönklitt Classic, Sweden, 50km
• Event 10: February 18, 2024 – Grönklitt ITT, Sweden, 12km
• Event 11: March 3, 2024 – Vasaloppet, Sweden, 90km
• Event 12: March 16, 2024 – Birkebeinerrennet, Norway, 54km
• Event 13: April 6, 2024 – Reistadløpet, Norway, 50km
• Event 14: April 7, 2024 – Summit 2 Senja, Norway, 60km
• Event 15: April 13, 2024 – Ski Classics Grand Finale – Janteloppet, Norway, 100km