Glitter, grit and the 50-km grind: What to know about cross-country skiing at the Winter Olympics

"Cross-country skiing, the rugged grandfather of snow competition, will give its brightest stars a defining stage at the Milan Cortina Winter Games. Sporting greats such as Jessie Diggins of the United States and Italy's own Federico Pellegrino arrive at the Feb. 622 Games still in form but nearing the end of their careers. A cornerstone winter event, cross-country skiing traces its roots to centuries-old Nordic traditions and is considered one of the purest tests of endurance."

"The biggest change at these Olympics is the equalization of race distances for men and women extending the women's longest event from 30 kilometers to 50. Twelve competitions are split evenly between genders, with distances ranging from the 1,585-meter sprint to the grueling 50-kilometer race. The sport features two primary techniques: the classic style, with skiers racing in parallel tracks, and the faster freestyle skating method. The demanding skiathlon blends both styles over a 20-kilometer course, with athletes switching skis mid-race."

"Norway has long dominated cross-country skiing, and its powerhouse team is once again led by Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo already a legend at 29. The five-time Olympic champion, renowned for explosive climbs and all-around versatility, arrives in Italy chasing more medals. On the women's side, Diggins remains a standout as the most decorated U.S. cross-country skier in history. This will be her final competitive season."

Cross-country skiing at the Milan Cortina Winter Games features twelve events equally divided between men and women, with women's longest distance extended from 30 to 50 kilometers. Events span from a 1,585-meter sprint to a grueling 50-kilometer race. The sport uses classic and freestyle techniques and includes the demanding skiathlon, which combines both styles and requires a mid-race ski change. Norway remains a dominant force led by Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo. Notable athletes include Jessie Diggins, Federico Pellegrino in his final season, and Sweden's Jonna Sundling as a sprint favorite.

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