After several weeks of cold temperatures and abundant snowfall, organizers of Västgötaloppet are planning a longer course layout for this season’s Winter Weekend in Ulricehamn, Sweden.

If conditions remain stable throughout the competition weekend on January 31 and February 1, 2026, participants can expect significantly longer laps than in previous editions.

According to course manager Linus Cedervärn, the intention is to extend the current loop at Lassalyckan from the traditional 6–7km artificial snow track to at least 10km, with a best-case scenario of up to 13–14km.

“We are now planning to extend the course from the 6–7km artificial snow loop at Lassalyckan to at least 10km, and in the best case up to 13–14km,” Cedervärn explains.

The extension would be carried out on natural snow along Lassalyckan’s regular trail network. These sections are already being groomed with snowcats to ensure good track quality and stable skiing conditions.

“This will provide an even better skiing experience. A longer course with more variation is both more enjoyable and more recreational skier-friendly, while also offering a really good test for those looking to seed themselves for upcoming long-distance races,” Cedervärn adds.

Strong interest ahead of Winter Weekend

Interest in the Västgötaloppet Winter Weekend has increased notably since winter conditions fully set in across the region. Nearly 500 participants are already registered for the various events scheduled over the weekend.

“With a longer course, we also have the opportunity to welcome more skiers. This means even more people can take part in our popular events in classic style, skate, team relay, and mini skiing,” says Eric Koerffer, Västgötaloppet’s marketing manager.

A final decision on the exact course length, as well as any potential impact on start times, will be made closer to race weekend, depending on weather and snow conditions.

Part of the Ski Classics Challengers Series

Västgötaloppet is part of the Ski Classics Challengers calendar, offering both classic and skate events. The races provide recreational and competitive skiers the opportunity to earn Ski Classics points and improve seeding ahead of major long-distance ski races later in the season.

More details about Västgötaloppet’s inclusion in the Ski Classics Challengers series and the event program for the 2026 Winter Weekend can be found on ProXCskiing.com and SkiClassics.com.

Also Read: Västgötaloppet joins the Ski Classics Challengers calendar with Classic and Skate events

The organizers look forward to welcoming skiers to Ulricehamn and sharing the event’s long tradition and strong community spirit.

Registrations for all the events (Competition 42, Exercise 42, Exercise 25, Exercise 18, Skate 42, Skate 25, Skate 12, and Relay) are already open – Link below!

REGISTER HERE

For more information about Västgötaloppet Winter Weekend 2026, visit the Västgötaloppet website.