News

On Sunday, 1 March 2026, thousands of skiers will once again gather in Sälen to take on the 90 kilometres to Mora. For members of the Worldloppet family, this is more than another race on the calendar – it is one of the true cornerstones of long-distance skiing and a highlight for every Worldloppet Passport holder.

A Race Rooted in History

First organised in 1922, Vasaloppet was inspired by the dramatic flight of Gustav Vasa in the winter of 1520–1521. The course from Sälen to Mora symbolically follows his journey through the forests of Dalarna, a story deeply woven into Swedish national history.

The famous finish-line motto, “In the tracks of our forefathers – for the victories of tomorrow,” reflects what many skiers feel when entering Mora after hours of effort: you are part of something far bigger than a single race.

Over more than a century, Vasaloppet has grown into the world’s largest cross-country ski event, while maintaining the authentic atmosphere that makes it so special for international visitors.

• Distance: 90 km, classic technique
• Start: Sälen
• Finish: Mora
• Highest point: 526 m above sea level
• Total elevation gain: 950 m
• Start time: 08:00 CET (elite)

The long climb towards Högsta Punkten in the opening kilometres spreads the field before the terrain transitions into rolling forest sections, wide marshlands, and the legendary checkpoints of Smågan and Evertsberg.

For many Worldloppet skiers, Evertsberg marks the psychological halfway point – after which strategy, energy management, and waxing choices often decide whether the final stretch into Mora becomes a triumph or a struggle.

The final kilometres along the Mora tracks are lined with spectators and emotion. Crossing under the famous finish banner remains one of long-distance skiing’s defining moments.

Vasaloppet Winter Week – A Festival on Snow

Vasaloppet is far more than Sunday’s 90 km race. The entire Winter Week offers distances from 9 to 90 kilometres, including women-only, youth, open track, and night events.

For international visitors and Worldloppet Passport holders travelling to Sweden, this provides flexibility – whether aiming for the full 90 km challenge or participating in another event as part of a broader skiing journey.

Weather & Conditions 2026

The latest forecasts suggest variable conditions in the days leading up to the race, with milder temperatures and possible precipitation before a colder race morning.

If overnight freezing creates compact tracks, the 2026 edition could become particularly fast. Course records stand at 3:28:18 (men) and 3:50:06 (women). Whether these marks come under pressure will depend largely on how the snow develops in the final hours before the start.

For recreational skiers, the key focus remains preparation:

• Careful ski selection and waxing strategy
• Respecting classic technique rules and controls
• Smart pacing in the crowded early kilometres

Elite Spotlight

Last year’s winners, Stina Nilsson and Alvar Myhlback, delivered remarkable performances, with Myhlback becoming the youngest male winner in race history.

The 2026 field is expected to be equally competitive, as Pro Tour athletes battle for one of the most prestigious victories in long-distance skiing. For amateur participants, sharing the same course and start area with the world’s best is part of the unique Vasaloppet experience.

For Worldloppet Passport Holders

Completing Vasaloppet is a milestone within the Worldloppet series. Whether you are working toward your Master title, chasing additional country stamps, or simply building your personal ski legacy, Mora is a destination that carries special weight.

We encourage all Passport holders travelling to Sweden to:

• Bring your Worldloppet Passport for stamping
• Visit the Worldloppet stand: Fr & Sa 10:00 to 17:00
• Embrace the international spirit – you will meet skiers from across the Worldloppet family

On 1 March 2026, the tracks from Sälen to Mora will once again connect generations, nations, and ambitions.

We wish all participants a successful race week and look forward to welcoming many new Vasaloppet finishers into the global Worldloppet community.