Finlandia Ski Marathon: Finland’s Premier Long-Distance Skiing Event
The Finlandia Ski Marathon stands as Finland’s largest long-distance skiing event, captivating participants and spectators alike since its inception in 1973. Celebrating its 52nd edition, the marathon has joined the esteemed Ski Classics Challengers series. Scheduled for February 22 and 23, 2025, the event features two significant races: a 62km Classic on the first day followed by a 62km Freestyle on the second.
Venue and Accessibility
All the action will take place at the renowned Lahti Ski Stadium, a prime venue that has a rich history of hosting prestigious Nordic Ski World Championships and World Cup events. Conveniently located within walking distance from Lahti town, the stadium provides state-of-the-art amenities for participants. Competitors will have access to essential services such as clothing storage, dressing rooms, saunas, and dining options—all within a few meters, ensuring a streamlined experience for all skiers.
Course and Conditions
The marathon course takes participants through the stunning landscapes of the Salpausselkä UNESCO Geopark. Although challenging weather conditions have previously affected preparations, Event Director Markku Levanen expressed confidence in the organization’s capability to maintain the full length of all routes. “It’s great that even in challenging conditions, we can complete all routes at their full length,” Levanen noted, commending the team for their thorough commitment to providing the best skiing conditions.
Creating a Vibrant Atmosphere
Over the last several years, the Local Organizing Committee has focused on enhancing the marathon’s atmosphere, making it more participant-oriented than ever before. Feedback from the 2024 survey indicated that service stations and a lively ambiance significantly boosted participants’ ratings of the event, showcasing a successful initiative to elevate the skiing experience.
Live Coverage and Accessibility
Both the Classic and Freestyle races of the Finlandia Ski Marathon will be broadcast live with Finnish commentary. Ski enthusiasts can catch all the action through dedicated live-streaming links, enhancing engagement and allowing followers to cheer for their favorite competitors from anywhere in the world. Watch the Classic race here and the Freestyle race here.
Points and Rankings
This year’s 62km races serve as Ski Classics Challengers events, enabling registered Pro Team athletes to accumulate points toward the Ski Classics Champion and Youth competitions. Ski racers may also track their performances through the MyPages platform, allowing users to view their results, collect pins, and print diplomas. This approach creates a sense of community, connecting both amateur and professional skiers within the global ranking system.
Join the Ski Classics Community
For those interested in Ski Classics and long-distance skiing, becoming a part of the dynamic skiing community is encouraged. Further information about events can be found at Ski Classics Classic and Ski Classics Skating. Membership also offers exclusive access to content on ProXCskiing.com, including live streams with English commentary. Explore Long-Distance Skiing for exciting developments and opportunities year-round.
