From a Canceled Race to a New Tradition

Seibert’s La Diagonela journey began almost by chance.

“I had originally planned to race Jizerská in the Czech Republic, but when it was canceled, La Diagonela stepped in as a replacement. I was new to Switzerland at the time, had never been to Engadin before, and with my love for classic skiing, the new race was a perfect fit. From then on, I simply had to keep coming back.”

In the second year, he even brought three Swedish friends with him – though, as he laughs, “the weather was so rough that they never returned.” By the third edition, the circle of “always there” skiers was already shrinking. For Seibert, that was the moment it became a matter of honor: he would never miss it.

Science Meets Skiing

As a hydrologist, snow is part of Seibert’s daily research – but on the tracks, he leaves science behind:

“Honestly, skiing is when I can switch off. But it’s true that snow is central to my water research. Our Citizen Science project CrowdWater even has a virtual station in La Punt. Every time I pass it during La Diagonela, I wonder if I should stop and take a measurement.”

His personal tradition? Staying in the youth hostel in Pontresina every year. “Back at the first race, they even prepared an early breakfast just for me. Now the La Diagonela spirit already starts at the breakfast table.”

Unforgettable Moments

Seibert recalls the first edition as truly magical:

“Perfect snow, fantastic tracks, blue skies – and I just managed not to get lapped. At the finish line, standing just a few meters away from Seraina Boner, my idol, was unforgettable.”

Over the years, the event has become more professional – but, he emphasizes, it has kept much of its familiar character. He has lived through course changes, the rise of double poling, and even the special 2021 Covid year, when only the elite could start: “I couldn’t reach Engadin due to heavy snowfalls and train cancellations. Instead, I skied 65 km on my home loop in Bonstetten.”

Pain and Joy in Zuoz

For him, the finish in Zuoz captures it all:

“The climb into the historic village feels brutally long, but once you reach the square with the cheering crowds, the pain is instantly forgotten. Then it’s pasta and a beer – that’s part of the reward.”

Compared to Sweden’s Vasaloppet, which he has skied 23 times, Seibert says La Diagonela offers something different: “La Diagonela is simply the most beautiful race I know. Thanks to it, I discovered and fell in love with Engadin.”

Why Scandinavians Should Join

Seibert sees La Diagonela as the perfect combination of sport and alpine experience:

“For me, the most important goal every year is just to finish in Zuoz. Once I’ve done that, the rest of the season is only a bonus.”

His advice for Scandinavian skiers? “Don’t chase times – enjoy the scenery, the atmosphere, and the unique mix of challenge and reward. And if possible, spend a few extra days skiing in the valley. It’s worth it.”

Looking Ahead to 2026

Seibert is already determined for the next edition: “My goal for 2026 is the same as every year: to somehow make it to the finish. La Diagonela is not about speed for me – it’s about the experience, the people, and the atmosphere.”

Register now and be part of the La Diagonela family – early bird prices are available until the end of October.

More information: www.ladiagonela.ch