The 19th edition of the Tour de Ski kicked off on December 28, 2023, in Toblach, Italy, featuring freestyle sprints. Laura Gimmler excelled for Germany, reaching the semifinals and finishing tenth overall. Victoria Carl and Friedrich Moch faced early exits. Despite injuries to key team members, the German squad remains hopeful for upcoming events. Norway’s Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo won the first stage, as the competition continues exclusively in Italy, culminating at Alpe Cermis.
Kickoff of the Tour de Ski 2024/25 in Toblach
The highly anticipated 19th edition of the Tour de Ski commenced on Saturday, December 28, 2023, with the freestyle sprints held in the scenic Italian town of Toblach. Laura Gimmler stood out as the top performer among German competitors, advancing to the semifinals, while fellow athletes Victoria Carl and Friedrich Moch faced early exits in the qualification rounds.
Gimmler’s Impressive Performance
Despite a challenging start for the German cross-country ski team, Laura Gimmler showcased her talent by securing a spot in the semifinals, marking the best result for the German Ski Association (DSV). The Oberstdorf native finished in a commendable tenth place, just behind Jessie Diggins, who claimed victory in this event. Diggins, a strong contender for the overall title, aims for her third Tour de Ski win following her success last winter.
In the qualification round, hopes were particularly high for Victoria Carl, especially after the withdrawals of Katharina Hennig and Coletta Rydzek. However, Carl’s performance fell short as she placed 33rd. Her strengths typically shine in distance events, where she is expected to perform better during the upcoming 15 km individual race.
Despite the setbacks, Gimmler exhibited remarkable form, leading her semifinal race initially. Unfortunately, she couldn’t maintain her lead and finished fifth, but her strong start to the Tour has set a positive tone for her season ahead.
The Road Ahead for the German Team
Injuries to key players Hennig and Rydzek have left the German team in a challenging position. Hennig, who previously excelled in the 2022/23 season, had to make a tough decision to withdraw due to health issues. Rydzek, also sidelined, expressed disappointment but remains supportive of her teammates as they move forward in the competition.
On the men’s side, Friedrich Moch, who had a standout performance last year, struggled in the qualification, finishing in 78th place. His focus remains on long-distance events, and he aims to bounce back in future races. Meanwhile, fellow competitors Jan Stölben and Marius Kastner managed to reach the quarterfinals but fell short of advancing further.
The first stage victory went to Norway’s Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo, who displayed his dominance with a commanding lead throughout the race. This year’s Tour de Ski promises to be an exhilarating event, with all races taking place exclusively in Italy, culminating in the challenging final climbs at Alpe Cermis.