What is Tour de Ski?

The Tour de Ski is one of the most prestigious and grueling events in the world of cross-country skiing. Modeled after the iconic Tour de France in cycling, it offers a stage-race format that challenges athletes with diverse competitions over several days. Held annually as part of the FIS Cross-Country World Cup, each Tour de Ski consists six to nine stages, culminating in an iconic uphill finale. Combining athletic endurance, technical skill, and strategic thinking, the Tour de Ski has become a fan favorite since its inception in 2006.

Each stage varies in format, including sprints, individual starts, mass starts, and pursuits. But the crown jewel of the Tour is the final stage: the infamous climb up Alpe Cermis in Val di Fiemme, Italy. Known as the "Final Climb," this stage features a punishing uphill course on alpine ski slopes, pushing competitors to their physical and mental limits. The stage's length is 10.0 km in total, the climb itself 3.6 km with an average gradient of 11.6% and a maximum gradient of 28.0%. The dramatic battles on the Final Climb have often decided the winner, creating unforgettable finishes that leave fans on the edge of their seats.

The Tour de Ski operates on a cumulative time system. Athletes compete in all stages, and their times are added together to determine the overall winner. Bonus seconds are awarded during intermediate sprints and at stage finishes, providing opportunities to gain an edge in the overall standings. This scoring system ensures that every stage is critical and no competitor can afford to lose focus.

Over the years, the Tour de Ski has delivered countless memorable moments and performances. Norwegian superstar Johannes Høsflot Klæbo has dazzled fans with his unparalleled sprinting skills and endurance, while legends like Dario Cologna and Justyna Kowalczyk have etched their names in history with multiple overall victories. In the 2024/2025 season, Jessie Diggins will defend her title in the Tour de Ski, aiming for her third overall victory.

Whether you’re a seasoned follower or new to the sport, the Tour de Ski is an event that captivates and inspires—so make sure you don't miss this true spectacle of endurance, skill, and determination!