Lager 157 Ski Team heads into Ski Classics Season XVII determined to leave its mark on both the men’s and women’s fields. Pro Team Director Anton Järnberg reflects on the new calendar, team developments, and the mission that lies ahead.
Calendar Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII
While Järnberg welcomes the most traditional races in the Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII, he also notes some concerns about the overall structure of the season.
“The calendar is very back-loaded with few races in January, which used to be our prime month,” says Järnberg, and adds:
“Now we have many races after Vasaloppet, when interest in skiing typically starts to fade. That could be a long-term issue.”
He also points out that only three “real” long-distance events – La Diagonela, Marcialonga, and Jizerská50 – take place before Vasaloppet.
“These are the conditions we have this year, so we will focus on what matters: Marcialonga, Jizerská, Vasaloppet, and Birken are high priorities for us.”
Also Read: Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII 2025/2026
Sprint & 50km ITT Formats
When it comes to the new formats introduced this season, Järnberg questions how well they fit within the traditional spirit of Ski Classics.
“I don’t think the sprint belongs in our circuit, especially not if the goal is to crown the world’s best long-distance skier. It can be a spectacular race, and we’ve even won it a few times with Alvar, but it doesn’t fit in the cup.”
Also Read: Myhlback and Gjerde Alnæs winners of Orlen Sprint 2025
Regarding the 50km Individual Time Trials in Grönklitt, Järnberg remains open-minded and sees potential in the format.
“It could be interesting, but with the current calendar, I would have preferred a mass start again this year.”
Season XVI Highlights: A Historic Vasaloppet and Women’s Progress
Lager 157 Ski Team had several high points last winter, particularly at Vasaloppet, where the team took first and second place in the men’s race. Alvar Myhlback made history as the youngest-ever winner at just 18 years old, followed closely by teammate Emil Persson.
Read More: Impressive Vasaloppet win for Alvar Myhlback
“Winning Vasaloppet for the third year in a row on the men’s side is obviously something we’re very proud of. At the same time, Jenny [Larsson] made a big leap in her development and secured five podiums in the women’s field. That’s something we look back on with joy.”
Also Read: Jenny Larsson renews with Lager 157 Ski Team – aims for Vasaloppet glory
Season XVII Goals: Define the Sport and Win the Big Ones
The Pro Team Director outlines clear and ambitious targets:
“We want to win the big ski races in both the men’s and women’s fields. We aim to shape the races and be a strong presence in the sport.”
Also Read: Lager 157 Ski Team presented: Aims for Vasaloppet double in Season XVII
Roster News: Kalland Olsen Joins the Squad
Norwegian Pro Team athlete Einar Kalland Olsen joins Lager 157 Ski Team from the development squad Exsitec Ski Team, following an impressive Season XVI where he secured multiple top-10 finishes and placed 16th in the overall standings.
“We believe he’ll make us even stronger as a team,” says Järnberg.
Järnberg has praised Olsen’s consistent improvement and sees him as a key asset for the team’s major goals this winter.
Also Read: Lager 157 Ski Team strengthens squad with Norwegian talent
Lager 157 Ski Team – Season XVII Lineup
Women
- Jenny Larsson
- Karolina Hedenström
- Linnea Johansson
- Anja Stolpe (pre-season, TBD for winter lineup)
Men
- Emil Persson
- Alvar Myhlback
- Runar Skaug Mathisen
- Oskar Kardin
- Nils Dahlsten
- Einar Kalland Olsen
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Author: Leandro Lutz
Photo: Reichert/NordicFocus
