Syrstad wins Birkebeinerrennet 2026 in an one-man-show, Alnaes dominates ladies race
Every winter, thousands of cross-country skiers follow in the historic tracks from Rena to Lillehammer in Norway’s most legendary long-distance race: the Birkebeinerrennet. As a proud member of the Worldloppet Ski Marathon Series, the 53-kilometre event once again brought together elite racers and a large field of passionate recreational skiers for a memorable day in the mountains.
A foggy but festive day on the Birkebeiner trail
The main race in 2026 edition took place unde late-winter conditions, with fog and temperatures hovering around freezing and windy conditions up on the fjell. But the main race day definitely was way more comfortable, than the Friday’s events – SkateBirken and TurBirken – where the participants had to fight against strong wind, snow/ice falls, rain and other extreme weathe
Birkebeinerrennet 2026 Results Men
The men’s race saw an impressive solo performance from Torleif Syrstad. After attacking early, he gradually increased his advantage and skied alone for much of the second half of the race. Syrstad crossed the finish line in Lillehammer after 2:20:27, nearly setting a new course record.
Behind him, a chasing group battled for the remaining podium places. Ole Jørgen Bruvoll finished second, while Runar Skaug Mathisen secured third place.
- Torleif Syrstad (NOR) 1:30:40,2
- Ole Jørgen Bruvoll (NOR) +04:09
- Runar Skaug Mathisen (NOR) +04:10
- Amund Riege (NOR) +04:10
- Einar Kalland-Olsen (NOR) +04:11
Birkebeinerrennet 2026 Results Ladies
At the front of the women’s race, the pace was high from the start, with a select group staying together for much of the course. The decisive moment came on the final descent towards Lillehammer, where two skiers managed to break away from the rest.
In the finishing sprint, Anikken Gjerde Alnæs proved strongest and claimed victory in 2:43:42. Just seconds behind, Silje Øyre Slind secured second place, while Hanna Lodin completed the podium after a strong race.
- Anikken Gjerde Alnaes (NOR) 02:43:42
- Silje Oeyre Slind (NOR) +00:02
- Hanna Lodin (SWE) +00:12
- Emilie Fleten (NOR) +01:01
- Hedda Baangman (SWE) +02:45
A highlight of the Worldloppet season
Year after year, the Birkebeinerrennet stands out as one of the highlights of the long-distance skiing winter. With its deep historical roots, spectacular mountain course and thousands of enthusiastic participants, the race perfectly reflects the spirit of the Worldloppet community: endurance, tradition and the joy of cross-country skiing. Now, only one more race is awaiting us in the Worldloppet winter calendar: The Fossavatnsgangan 2026 in Iceland is going to take place on April 18th.
