A Streamlined Waxing Process

This year’s modifications aim to make the system more efficient and athlete-friendly. FIS Cross-Country Competition Manager Michal Lamplot confirms that restrictions during the official training day have been reduced, allowing wax technicians to assist athletes in selecting skis on the course.

Robert Peets, a member of the FIS World Cup Committee and a key figure behind this project, highlights in a press release the simplicity of the updated waxing procedure:

“The wax used is applied to the ski with compressed air from a can, and the dried surface is smoothed with a brush. There’s no need to bring an iron anymore. It takes a team a maximum of five minutes per pair, and essentially, they only need to prepare one pair for the competition.”

A More Transparent and Sustainable Approach

Historically, World Cup teams operated from separate waxing cabins, requiring large service crews and significant resources. In 2023, the Tallinn World Cup changed this dynamic by consolidating all ski preparation into a single 300-square-meter tent. Forty wax technicians handled all athletes’ skis, eliminating the need for teams to transport service trucks and large support crews. Each athlete could submit up to two pairs of skis, with one selected for the race.

One of the key refinements for 2025 addresses concerns about pre-waxing procedures. In 2023, there were no strict controls on what was done to skis before the unified wax was applied, potentially creating an uneven playing field. Peets confirms that this issue has now been solved with improved oversight and thorough fluorine testing.

Impact on Wax Technicians and Event Feasibility

While some initially feared this system might reduce the need for traditional service teams, Peets emphasizes that this method is only suitable for city sprints in free technique. “If this race were in classic technique, such an approach would be unthinkable,” he explains. Lamplot reassures that wax technicians remain an essential part of the sport, with traditional methods still prevailing in most World Cup events.

Tallinn’s Role in the Future of Cross-Country Skiing

The success of the 2023 event played a crucial role in securing another World Cup edition in Tallinn. “For FIS and national ski associations, long-term cooperation with organizers is vital,” says Lamplot. “We need organizers like those in Estonia, who create engaging and well-executed events.”

Despite snow shortages across Europe this season, Lamplot remains optimistic about Tallinn’s preparations. “Thanks to excellent work from organizers, no World Cup event has suffered from a lack of snow this season. Tallinn is also delivering positive news, so I believe everything will be ready.”

Cross-Country World Cup: Complete program for Tallinn

After the World Championships in Holmenkollen, the 2024/2025 cross-country skiing season continues this week with the World Cup in Tallinn, Estonia. Check the complete competition program here.

Tallinn, Norway, is the place for another stage of the cross-country skiing World Cup season 2024/2025. The event takes place this Wednesday, March 19, with a sprint race in freestyle technique for women and men.

Also Read: 2024/2025 cross-country skiing World Cup calendar

FACTS Tallinn World Cup Season 2024/2025

• When: Wednesday, March 19, 2025 
• Who: Elite national skiers – women and men
• Where: Tallinn, Estonia
• What: FIS Cross-Country World Cup in Tallinn, Estonia

PROGRAM

Wednesday, March 19: Sprint Freestyle (More details can be found HERE)

• 15:30 CET: Sprint Qualify F, Men
• 15:30 CET: Sprint Qualify F, Women
• 18:00 CET: Sprint F, Men
• 18:00 CET: Sprint F, Women

Read More: World Cup calendar for the 2024/2025 Winter Season

After Estonia (Tallinn), the World Cup ends the season with a weekend in Finland (Lahti).

Are you interested in traditional cross-country skiing? Click HERE and read more about it.

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