FIS Cross-Country committee discusses World Cup calendar and rule changes in Zurich

The Cross-Country committee at the FIS Autumn Meetings in Zurich (SUI) covered numerous topics, from youth participation to potential rule changes for World Cup events.

The 2025–26 World Cup calendar, first presented at the Spring Meetings in Vilamoura (POR), was subject to minor changes. The stop in Trondheim (NOR) from December 5–7 will now comprise a Sprint Classic followed by a 20 km Skiathlon, and a 10 km Interval Start Free.

Stage Three of the 20th Tour de Ski has been confirmed as adopting the new Heat Mass Start format, where 20–25 skiers will start together in separate heats. Allocation of competitors to heats will be based on the overall Tour de Ski standings after Heat Two. This format will be evaluated at the end of the season.

Stage Four of the Tour de Ski, the Pursuit Classic in Toblach (ITA), has been lengthened from 15 km to 20 km. The starting order will also be based on the overall standings after Stage Two.

Finally, there is a change in technique for Lahti (FIN) on March 8, with the 10 km Interval Start now a Classic race as opposed to Free.

This summer’s Rollerski World Cup was a success with a record 35 nations taking part. In total, 154 men and 96 women scored World Cup points; at junior level, 95 men and 55 women scored Junior World Cup points. The highlight was the third round in Rome (ITA), raced against the backdrop of the Colosseum. There was also a first Roller Ski Asian Cup with more than 240 athletes from 12 countries.

Martins Niklass has decided to step down as Rollerski World Cup Coordinator, while continuing as Chairman of the Roller Skiing sub-committee.

The sub-committee for Rules and Control has been working on a new sanction for obstruction in head-to-head competitions, targeted for possible implementation in the 2026–27 season. The committee will finalize details and analyze applicable situations during the upcoming season, with final approval to be discussed in spring 2026.

Adjustments concerning sportsmanlike and unsportsmanlike conduct have been made to the International Competition Rules, and education guidelines for FIS technical officials were approved.

Beyond elite racing, the Popular Skiing sub-committee announced an education campaign to help participants respect technique rules—such as avoiding skating in classic events—and to explain the role of the jury.

The Youth & Children sub-committee presented several initiatives, including a ‘Youth Coach’ project focused on basic training and a ‘Train the Trainers’ campaign. Quarterly Youth/Junior coaching webinars will begin in October for coaches and accomplished athletes. An update was also provided on the Junior World Ski Championships and Under-23 World Ski Championships for 2026 and beyond, emphasizing suitable courses for youth and junior categories.

Youth & Children sub-committee Chairwoman Satu Kalajainen will step down from her role. FIS thanked her for her contribution and wished her well for the future.