The DSV Roller Ski Marathon Series 2026 is a roller ski tour across Germany using the classic technique in marathon distances, with standardized skis provided.

Heading into the new season with four events, the series is built around a clear competitive framework, uniform rules, and sharper differentiation within the field. The series is based on the current IWO/DWO Cross-Country Skiing regulations, with the goal of creating fair and comparable conditions for all athletes, from the junior classes through to the masters categories.

Four events on the 2026 calendar

The DSV Roller Ski Marathon Series 2026 features four events. The following stops are confirmed in the current schedule:

• June 21, 2026 – Oberhof
• July 19, 2026 – SC Lanzenhain
• September 6, 2026 – TSV Carlsgrün 1923 e.V.
• October 11, 2026 – TSG Ruhla (Final)

The series is organized by the German Ski Association (DSV). All age categories from J16 to AK76, both male and female, are eligible to participate.

A valid race license from the respective regional ski association is generally required. Where no race license system exists, a verifiable confirmation of club membership is sufficient. International athletes are also welcome, though they participate at their own risk and without automatic race insurance.

New structure: Elite and Sportler classification

One of the most significant changes for the 2026 season is the introduction of separate Elite and Sportler (recreational) classifications.

In the Elite group, standardized roller skis are mandatory; a measure designed to level the playing field on equipment and ensure genuinely comparable competitive conditions. In the Sportler classification, athletes may use their own roller skis, though only within the specified technical regulations. Permitted models are those with m/s or 2/3 wheel ratings, while models such as the Skiskett with blue wheels are excluded. Equipment is checked before and after each race.

Points-based overall standings

The general classification is decided by a points system. The winner receives 30 points, second place 26, third 24, fourth 22, fifth 20, with each subsequent position earning one point less. In the event of a tie, the number of participations is the first tiebreaker, followed by best individual result. For athletes aged 50 and over, an additional age-adjusted classification is maintained using the FIS conversion table.

Classic technique throughout

All races in the Marathon Series are contested exclusively in classic technique. Violations of equipment or technique rules may result in disqualification following a jury review. In addition to roller skis, poles may also be checked. Under DWO regulations, pole length must not exceed 83 percent of the athlete’s height plus 2 centimeters.

Entry fees and organization

Entry fees are standardized across the series at 20€ per race. In the Elite class, a rental fee of 10€ applies for the provided roller skis. Late entries incur an additional fee of 5€.

Registrations are submitted electronically to the respective host organizer. For the overall standings, results must be forwarded to the series coordinator no later than one day after each event.

Oberhof: Racing plus a full programme for everyone

The highlight on the near-term calendar is the next event on June 21, 2026, in Oberhof. The race will be accompanied by an extensive supporting and participation programme, including:

• Roller ski test session
• Inline skating course
• Taster lessons
• Charity fun run
• Ski second-hand
• Laser biathlon shooting
• Tombola

The event runs from 10:00 to 14:00 at the LOTTO Thüringen Arena Oberhof and is aimed not only at performance-oriented roller ski athletes, but at newcomers, families, and the curious public. Oberhof thus gives the series a fan-friendly, community character, combining elite competition with grassroots and youth outreach.

Significance for the German roller ski scene

With the 2026 Roller Ski Marathon Series, the DSV is pursuing several goals at once: providing competitive athletes with a national benchmark platform, integrating the Masters categories in a structured way, and opening the sport up to a broader audience. The new split between Elite and Sportler classifications in particular should bring greater clarity, both in terms of competitive rankings and the ongoing equipment debate.

Oberhof shows that the series is understood not just as a race format, but as an opportunity to bring roller skiing to a wider public.

All information about the series and its regulations can also be found on the DSV website (Rollski Nordisch – Deutscher Skiverband).

Also Read: The roller ski guide 2026

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