Tour de Ski Program, Prize Money, and Controversial Climbing Bib – Everything About the Ski Tour

Overview of the Tour de Ski

The Tour de Ski is back this year, taking place entirely in Italy. The tour has seen modifications in the colors of the familiar leader bibs, and a completely new bib for climbing has been introduced this season.

The tour kicks off on December 28 in Toblach, where sprinters will compete in free technique sprints. Last year, Switzerland was part of the tour, but this time, it will proceed only in Toblach and Val di Fiemme.

Initial Schedule

• December 28: Sprint (free)
• December 29: 15 kilometers (classic style), mass start
• December 31: 20 kilometers (free), time trial
• January 1: 15 kilometers (classic style), pursuit
• January 3: Sprint (classic)
• January 4: Skiathlon 10 km (classic) + 10 km (free)
• January 5: Final ascent, mass start at Alpe Cermis.

Changes in Leader Bibs

To highlight the competitive spirit and draw inspiration from road cycling's most esteemed race, the Tour de Ski will showcase three different leader bibs: - Gold Bib: Given to the overall tour leader. - Silver Bib: Awarded to the best sprinter. - Violet Bib: A new addition for the fastest climber throughout the tour, determined by points collected in climbing stages. This initiative has sparked various opinions among competitors about its relevance.

Prize Money

The prize money for the overall champions reflects a significant incentive. Each champion will receive 85,000 Swiss francs (approximately €91,700), up by 5,000 francs from the previous year. While some prize pools have decreased, the competition remains fierce, especially with many aiming for a share of the total prize money.

Finnish Participants

This year, nine Finnish athletes will participate, including: - Niko Anttola - Niilo Moilanen - Arsi Ruuskanen - Lauri Vuorinen - Kerttu Niskanen - Krista Pärmäkoski - Jasmin Kähärä - Johanna Matintalo - Jasmi Joensuu

Despite some notable absences, the competition in Toblach and Val di Fiemme is expected to be thrilling with these talented athletes.

Historical Context

The Tour de Ski remains one of the most prestigious events in cross-country skiing, showcasing top talents like Jessie Diggins and Johannes Høsflot Kläbo, who claimed victories in recent years. Finland's Virpi Kuitunen remains a notable past winner, having taken the title in 2006–07 and 2008–09.

Upcoming segments in the Central European Ski Jumping Week will also continue to attract attention, demonstrating the rich tapestry of winter sports happening at this time of year in various parts of Europe.