For the first time, the European Ski Mountaineering Championships will take place at Shahdag Ski Resort in Azerbaijan, bringing four days of high-level competition to the Caucasus Mountains. The event marks another important milestone for the resort and for ski mountaineering in the region, as the International Ski Mountaineering Federation (ISMF) continues its strong presence in Azerbaijan for the third consecutive year.
A total of 115 athletes from 17 nations will compete in Shahdag, representing countries from across Europe and beyond. Competitors will race across several categories — Senior, U23, U20, and U18 — all aiming to secure the prestigious title of European Champion.
The championships will feature four race formats across four competition days:
- 4 March – Sprint
- 5 March – Mixed Relay
- 6 March – Individual Race (ISMF World Cup & European Championship)
- 8 March – Vertical Race (ISMF World Cup & European Championship)
The Individual and Vertical races will also count as ISMF World Cup events, making Shahdag a key stop on the international calendar and attracting some of the sport’s top athletes.
Among the competitors will be several Olympic medalists and world-class athletes, including Marianne Fatton, Jon Kistler, and Nikita Filippov, who will compete on the challenging courses set in the spectacular terrain of Shahdag.
With elite athletes, rising young talents from across Europe, and the impressive backdrop of the Greater Caucasus mountains, the European Ski Mountaineering Championships in Shahdag promise four thrilling days of competition and an exciting showcase for the future of the sport.
Weather Conditions
This week at Shahdag will be cool and changeable. Early in the week the mountain air stays cool with scattered clouds and occasional rain mixed with snow at higher elevations. Mid‑week brings a mix of clearer skies and partly cloudy conditions with mild daytime temperatures, while later days may see cloudier periods and some precipitation returning as temperatures hover around cool levels typical for the highlands. Nights will be chilly, often close to or below freezing in the mountains, so visitors should be prepared for brisk conditions and variable weather throughout the week.
Where to watch?
