Saturday, January 31, 2026 – Boí Taüll
The first day of competition in Boí Taüll opened under uncertain weather conditions, with strong winds affecting the venue early in the morning. As conditions gradually stabilized, the race was able to proceed as planned thanks to the exceptional efforts of the volunteers, the Local Organizing Committee, and all event staff, who ensured a smooth and safe competition.
The Sprint race brought together 114 athletes — 47 women and 67 men — representing 22 nations, all facing a demanding 68-metre elevation gain course designed to test both power and technical skill.
From the very start, athletes were pushed to deliver high-intensity efforts on a medium-steep opening climb, before stepping up the pace on a more demanding two-diamond sections. Precision and efficiency were crucial through the short flat sections, where athletes fought to maintain speed before entering the boot-pack, tackling the iconic stairs with explosive strength and rapid transitions.
Once back on skis, competitors accelerated into a fast downhill, showcasing control and confidence at high speed, before settling into a long flat traverse where endurance and tactical positioning played a key role. The race was decided in the final meters, as a sharp 180-degree turn led into the finishing climb, with athletes switching to skating mode and unleashing their final sprint to the line.
Women’s Sprint
Emily Harrop and Giulia Murada immediately taking control from the very first meters. Harrop led the race from start to finish, setting a relentless pace and never giving her rivals an opportunity to challenge for the win.
Behind her, the battle for the remaining podium places was intense. Giulia Murada held second position for most of the race, but Margot Ravinel stayed close throughout, constantly applying pressure and keeping the fight for the podium wide open. The two remained tightly matched through the foot section, where margins were minimal.
Murada made the decisive difference in the transitions. Thanks to a fast and efficient switch back to skins, she managed to open a small gap, secure second place, and cross the finish line ahead of Ravinel. Meanwhile, Harrop crossed the line comfortably, confirming her excellent form.
Notably, the same three athletes once again shared the podium, repeating their results from the previous stage in Courchevel.
Women’s Sprint – Final Results
- Emily Harrop (FRA) – 03:01.8
- Giulia Murada (ITA) – 03:09.0 (+7.2)
- Margot Ravinel (FRA) – 03:11.9 (+10.1)
- Alba De Silvestro (ITA) – 03:15.3 (+13.5)
- Johanna Hiemer (AUT) – 03:24.6 (+22.8)
Men’s Sprint
The Men’s Sprint delivered a high-intensity battle from the opening meters. Nikita Filippov once again launched aggressively, setting a fast early pace and immediately asserting control, with Oriol Cardona Coll close behind. Thibault Anselmet gradually closed the gap before the foot section, as the heavy effort of the opening climb began to take its toll.
Cardona exited the final transition in the lead, but Anselmet remained just behind, applying constant pressure. On the second turn of the final section, the French athlete made his decisive move, overtaking Cardona and quickly opening a gap that proved impossible to close. From there, Anselmet controlled the race to the finish, while a tight battle continued behind him among the main contenders.
Notably, the same three athletes once again shared the podium, repeating their results from the previous stage in Courchevel.
Men’s Sprint – Final Results
- Thibault Anselmet (FRA) – 02:35.9
- Oriol Cardona Coll (ESP) – 02:39.9 (+4.0)
- Nikita Filippov (AIN) – 02:47.2 (+11.3)
- Nicolò Ernesto Canclini (ITA) – 02:53.4 (+17.5)
- Luca Tomasoni (ITA) – 02:59.4 (+23.5)
All Eyes on Boí Taüll for the Season’s Second Mixed Relay
Tomorrow marks the second Mixed Relay of the season, with all major Mixed Relay teams targeting Milano Cortina lining up at the start. With improved weather conditions forecast, everything is set for a fast and demanding race.
A thrilling and intense battle is expected, as the world’s best teams go head-to-head in what promises to be a spectacular competition, where strategy, teamwork, and execution will make the difference.