With the Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII calendar released, Pro Team Director Markus Walser shares his thoughts on the new season, reflects on the team’s journey through past challenges, and outlines what’s next for Team BSV IBEX.
After a demanding Pro Tour Season XVI impacted by key injuries, Team BSV IBEX looks forward to a fresh start in Season XVII. The Swiss Pro Team, known for its strong spirit and development, has been a consistent presence in the Pro Tour and aims to be among the top 15 in the Pro Team competition standings.
Also Read: Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII 2025/2026
Calendar Brings Opportunities and Challenges
The release of the Season XVII calendar introduced several changes, including the new Bedřichov Sprint and the long 50km ITTs in Grönklitt.
“My first impressions of the calendar were that there are interesting new formats,” says Walser to Ski Classics and ProXCskiing.com.
“From my side as a Pro Team Director, it’s always a bit easier when there are no new destinations, and I don’t have to search for good accommodations, etc. But from our side, it’s a bit sad that there is just one weekend in December and then a break until Diagonela. We would be happier with one more race weekend in December.”
The Swiss Pro Team also anticipates logistical and financial hurdles in the second half of the season.
“The Olympic break in February was expected and gives us a good opportunity to train again for the tough season end. However, five weekends in a row in Scandinavia present a significant financial challenge for us. Most of our athletes are not full-time skiers and have to work between races, so we have to fly them back and forth.”
New Race Formats Could Suit the Pro Team
Team BSV IBEX sees potential in the new formats introduced this season.
“The two new formats are interesting changes, and I think they suit our team well,” explains Walser.
“We raced the Sprint at Jizerská last year, and it was fun. It’s also a good chance to get Cubs involved, especially since some young Swiss skiers are hesitant about long distances. Hopefully, the Sprint will inspire them, and they can see how fun and well-organized Ski Classics is.”
On the new 50km ITT format, Walser says:
“It will be a very hard race for our athletes. Mentally, skiing 50km alone is a big challenge. But I think the racecourse in Grönklitt is perfect for this format, and I’m really looking forward to it. I’m also curious to see how it will be presented on TV.”
Proud Moments and Lessons from Season XVI
Season XVI was marked by adversity for Team BSV IBEX, with top male and female athletes sidelined due to injury before the season began.
“In Switzerland, it’s not easy to replace injured athletes with others at the same level,” Walser reflects.
“So, I’m really proud that we still managed to finish in the top 20 with a reduced team.”
Despite the setbacks, the team made progress in areas such as waxing, a challenge for smaller teams adjusting to the fluor-free regulations.
“We took a step in the right direction with material and fluor-free waxing, even if we still have potential for improvement.”
Goals and Roster Updates for Season XVII
With most of the previous roster returning, Walser is hopeful that injured athletes Gianluca Wenger and Franziska Müller can bounce back strong.
“My main goal is to build a team that can reach the top 15 in the Pro Team competition. That means we need female results in the top 20 and male results in the top 50. And, of course, it’s always a goal to be the best German-speaking team in the series.”
Still, the team is seeking to recruit new athletes to bolster the lineup, particularly on the women’s side.
“We are still searching for a strong woman with top 15 potential, which would really help us take the next step,” concludes the Pro Team Director.
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