Team Engcon enters the Ski Classics Season XVII following a historic Season XVI, where they not only secured the Champion bibs for both women and men but also dominated the men’s overall standings with remarkable depth and consistency.
Pro Team Director Jørgen Ulvang shares his thoughts on the new calendar, race formats, and highlights from last season.
Calendar Season XVII
Ulvang describes the Season XVII calendar as broadly consistent with previous years, featuring many familiar venues and the all-important Grand Classics.
“The calendar includes the Grand Classics, and those are really the heart of Ski Classics. Some races may not be my personal favorites, but overall, it’s a solid lineup,” says Ulvang to Ski Classics and ProXCskiing.com.
The Pro Team Director also expressed some regret over the absence of the Drei Zinnen Ski Marathon.
“It was a very good race for the athletes and had great TV production. It’s a bit unfortunate that it’s not included this season.”
Sprint and 50km ITTs
The introduction of the Bedřichov Sprint in the Czech Republic and the 50km Individual Time Trials (ITTs) in Grönklitt, Sweden, adds fresh elements to the Pro Tour.
Ulvang acknowledges the spectacle of the sprint but remains cautious about its place in the circuit.
“It’s fun to watch under the lights, and some athletes like it, but the training is quite different from the rest of the season. I’m not convinced it fits within the full calendar, perhaps more of an evening event like before.”
Regarding the 50km ITT, he is more optimistic.
“It’s a classic racing style and could be interesting if the start intervals are compact. Too much time between racers makes it less engaging.”
The Pro Team Director reflects on last year’s course in Orsa, which had many twists and isolated sections.
“If the course can be more straightforward and open, this format has the potential to develop.”
Also Read: Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII 2025/2026
Season XVI Highlights
Last winter was a milestone for Team Engcon, with Anikken Gjerde Alnæs and Ole Jørgen Bruvoll both winning overall Champion bibs.
The men’s overall podium was dominated by Team Engcon, with Johan Tjelle and Amund Hoel finishing second and third, respectively.
Also Read: Final Ski Classics standings Season XVI – All bib winners
One standout moment for Ulvang was the Jizerská50.
“We had two wins and four podiums there. It was a fantastic weekend with great organization and lots of participants.”
Read More: Team Engcon dominates Jizerská50 as Bruvoll and Gjerde Alnæs take the win
Ambitions for Season XVII
Looking ahead, Ulvang is aiming for continued success but acknowledges the challenge.
“We want to compete for podiums and victories in the Grand Classics and overall standings again. It’s tough to beat last season, but we’re in a good position to fight for more.”
Team News and Updates
The Pro Team remains mostly intact. Eddie Edström retires from racing but joins as an assistant coach and ski technician.
“He’s passionate about ski testing and structures, and it’s great to keep him involved.”
Read More – Silly Season: Team Engcon athlete says goodbye
Meanwhile, Ida Dahl continues her recovery and remains closely connected with the team.
“Ida is motivated and making progress in her training. She is receiving support from the resources we have within the team. Whether she’ll be on the start line this winter is still uncertain.”
Also Read – Team Engcon presents team lineup: long-distance star missing
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Author: Leandro Lutz
Photo: Barbieri/NordicFocus
