Two Days of Pure Rivalry in the Dolomites
Last week, the Telemark World Cup in Pinzolo delivered exactly what fans love about freeheel racing: pressure, precision, and uncompromising battles from the first gate to the finish line. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Dolomites, the sprint races became a true test of nerve, speed, and experience.
From the opening runs, it was clear that Pinzolo would not forgive mistakes. Margins were tight, rhythm was everything, and every landing mattered.
Men’s Sprint – Day 1: The Leader Strikes First
The first race day belonged to Nicolas Michel. Calm, controlled, and razor-sharp, the Swiss veteran showed why he remains one of the strongest figures in the circuit. His skiing combined experience with authority, setting the benchmark for the entire field.
Behind him, Yoann Rostolan stayed close, pushing hard and refusing to let the leader escape. Raphael Mahlknecht, racing at home, matched speed with precision and brought the crowd into the race.
Top 5 – Day 1 (Men):
- Nicolas Michel (SUI)
- Yoann Rostolan (FRA)
- Raphael Mahlknecht (ITA)
- Alexis Page (FRA)
- Jacob Benjamin Alveberg (NOR)
The message after day one was clear: the fight had only just begun.

Men’s Sprint – Day 2: The Answer Comes Back
Day two flipped the script. Yoann Rostolan attacked the course with confidence and aggression, finally breaking through for his first Telemark World Cup victory. His skiing was bold and uncompromising, a clear statement that a new contender had arrived.
Michel responded with composure, securing second place and keeping his grip on the overall standings. Alexis Page remained consistent, while Adrian Ball fought his way into the top five, confirming Canada’s growing presence in the World Cup battle.
Top 5 – Day 2 (Men):
- Yoann Rostolan (FRA)
- Nicolas Michel (SUI)
- Alexis Page (FRA)
- Raphael Mahlknecht (ITA)
- Adrian Ball (CAN)
After Pinzolo, the scoreboard reads 1–1 between Michel and Rostolan. The rivalry is officially alive.
Women’s Sprint – Day 1: Consistency Under Pressure
The women’s field delivered equally intense racing. Jasmin Taylor opened the weekend with a confident and controlled performance, showing composure under pressure and setting the pace for the field.
Close behind, Laly Chaucheprat and Goril Strøm Eriksen kept the margins tight, proving that the podium would remain contested throughout the weekend.
Top 5 – Day 1 (Women):
- Jasmin Taylor (GBR)
- Laly Chaucheprat (FRA)
- Goril Strøm Eriksen (NOR)
- Camille Bourbon (FRA)
- Argeline Tan Bouquet (FRA)
Women’s Sprint – Day 2: The Queen Strikes Back
On the second day, Laly Chaucheprat answered with a powerful performance of her own. Sharp lines and confident transitions carried her to victory, reminding everyone that last season’s dominance was no coincidence.
Taylor remained strong and consistent, while Eriksen once again confirmed her place among the top contenders.
Top 5 – Day 2 (Women):
- Laly Chaucheprat (FRA)
- Jasmin Taylor (GBR)
- Goril Strøm Eriksen (NOR)
- Camille Bourbon (FRA)
- Augustine Carliez (FRA)
What Pinzolo Told Us
Pinzolo was not just another stop on the calendar. It was a statement.
- Nicolas Michel showed leadership and consistency
- Yoann Rostolan proved he belongs at the very top
- Alexis Page stayed firmly in the fight
- The women’s field confirmed depth, balance, and constant pressure
No athlete dominated completely. No victory came easily. Every race demanded full commitment.
The Telemark World Cup season is now fully awake.
The rivalries are real.
The margins are brutal.
And the road to the globe is wide open.
Ofical resutls see on the page FIS Telemark.
You can also read our recap from the previous Telemark World Cup races in Pinzolo here.
With the Pinzolo races completed, the Telemark World Cup season now moves forward with the next stage scheduled for Carezza, Italy, on 14–15 January 2026, where top athletes will face another demanding sprint course. Following Carezza, competitors will head to Melchsee-Frutt, Switzerland, from 23–25 January 2026 for continued World Cup action and points battles.