With the Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII calendar announced, the eD system Vltava Fund Team enters a new chapter of transformation. Pro Team Director Marek Pazderský shares his thoughts on the calendar, new race formats, and the shift toward developing young talent for the future.
After one of their most successful seasons in terms of team results, the Czech Pro Team is now taking a bold step in Season XVII to restructure and focus on long-term development rather than short-term gains.
In addition, earlier this week, the Vltava Fund Ski Team announced a significant change, officially ending its chapter after 11 seasons in the Pro Tour. Read more about that transition and the reflections from team leadership HERE.
Also Read: Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII 2025/2026
A Personal and Team Perspective on the New Calendar
For Pazderský, the Pro Tour Season XVII calendar brings both logistical benefits and family considerations, alongside real challenges for amateur-level teams.
“There are always two aspects to consider. First, how it suits me, my work, and my family. I really like the first half of the calendar. I’ll be at home more, with only two weekends in the Alps and the whole of February at home,” says Pazderský to Ski Classics and ProXCskiing.com.
“But the five weekends in a row in Scandinavia? That’s a problem. My family wouldn’t be too happy, and I’d really miss my children.”
From a Pro Team standpoint, the February break offers new possibilities:
“This gives our athletes a real opportunity to train hard—something that wasn’t possible before—and be stronger for the Scandinavian part of the tour. But amateur teams like ours simply can’t afford to spend five straight weeks in Scandinavia due to work and family commitments. Flying back and forth is too expensive. I think only a few teams will manage the full tour,” he says and adds: “It’s a shame there isn’t a free weekend between Birken and the last two races. That would make life a lot easier for us.”
Excitement about New Formats – and Some Bold Ideas
The new Bedřichov Sprint and 50km ITTs were welcomed enthusiastically by the Czech Pro Team Director.
“I like it! Ski Classics is never boring, and that’s why it’s going strong,” says Pazderský. “The sprint will be a great show. Lots of stars have competed in these before, and now it’s going to be even more intense.”
He even suggested more innovation:
“I think something similar – maybe a team sprint or team tempo – should be added on Saturday before Marcialonga at the Tesero Stadium. Imagine that, with 10,000 spectators!”
On the 50km ITT in Grönklitt, Marek adds:
“I applaud the return of the royal discipline of the 50km interval race – and the location is perfect. The track is incredibly interesting and fun. For a moment, I even thought about putting my race suit back on.”
A Season of Results and Hard Lessons
Season XVI brought mixed feelings: strong team results but personal frustrations.
“In terms of team results, it was one of our most successful seasons. Hedda Bångman was regularly in the top ten, Hanna Fine showed her great potential, and our men – Fabián Štoček and Vašek Sedláček – delivered consistent performances, although each of them missed out on at least one top result,” says Pazderský.
However, there were challenges:
“Karolína Grohová dealt with a long-term injury. Thomas Bing struggled with health issues – some results were great, others not so much. And unfortunately, our service let us down at both Marcialonga and Vasaloppet.”
Pazderský is candid in his self-reflection:
“On a personal level, it wasn’t a good season. Several mistakes were made. We need to learn from them, put them behind us, and move forward.”
Restructuring for the Future
Season XVII will mark a clear shift in strategy for the Pro Team.
“This year, we’re restructuring the team—from professional athletes to young talents whom we want to give the opportunity to compete and break into the top level of Ski Classics and long-distance skiing. We know it means stepping back from the front of the field, but it’s necessary for our survival,” he explains.
“Without investing in youth, we won’t have anyone left to race for us in the future. Buying ready-made stars might be easier, but that’s not our style. We believe in working hard with young people and building something together.”
A Blend of Experience and New Faces
The team will still be led by seasoned athletes such as Thomas Bing, Vašek Sedláček, and Aleš Bohatý, while a wave of young Czech talent is set to join the squad.
“We have five young Czech competitors who will fight for their place this summer and autumn. We’re also leaving a spot open for Olympic dropouts or emerging talent from Scandinavia who didn’t make it into our rivals’ prestigious teams,” says Pazderský.
On the women’s side, the team includes Kája Grohová, Laura Stichling, and Anna-Marie Hejná, with new additions like Eliška Šibravová and a promising young Swede (yet to be officially named).
“We’ve also made a new signing in the Cubs category,” he adds.
Looking at the Big Picture
Pazderský reflects on the evolving landscape of the Pro Tour:
“I believe Ski Classics will increasingly be split into two groups – about ten professional teams operating at the highest level, and a second group like ours, with two or three strong athletes and many young ones aiming to progress. These development teams won’t have the resources to peak every skier, so we’ll need collaboration or even transfers to Pro Teams.”
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Author: Leandro Lutz
Photo: Reichert/NordicFocus
