Candide Pralong winner of the 54th International Goms Ski Marathon

Media release
The 54th International Gommerlauf took place on the weekend of February 21 and 22, 2026 in Goms with great success.A total of 1728 participants ensured an impressive cross-country skiing festival over two days of racing.The cross-country skiing weekend was characterized by strong performances, exciting races and a unique winter backdrop.

Despite challenging conditions on Saturday and perfect conditions on Sunday - the runners at the 54th Int. Gommerlauf put in strong performances.The traditional cross-country skiing weekend offered exciting and sporting highlights, emotional moments and a unique winter atmosphere.The Gommerlauf once again confirmed its reputation as a traditional and atmospheric event in the Swiss cross-country skiing calendar.

Photo finish at the ski marathon

On Sunday, the International Gommer Ski Marathon over 42 kilometers took center stage in glorious winter weather.The men's race was particularly exciting: a leading group of ten athletes led the field for long stretches.The decision was only made in the final sprint, and by a very narrow margin:Candide Pralong (1:50:06) won in a photo finish ahead of Jason Rüesch and Elia Beti.

In the women's race, Giuliana Werro (1:58:48) put in a strong and controlled performance over the entire distance.She dominated the race for a long time before Seraina Boner was able to dangerously close the gap again in the final kilometers.Third place was secured by Carla Nina Wohler, who fought for a podium place by a wafer-thin margin.

Challenging conditions at the start

Due to heavy snowfall and an increased risk of avalanches, the 54th International Gommerlauf was initially uncertain.Once the situation had stabilized, the event was able to take place as planned, even though Saturday was marked by challenging conditions.Even before the start, heavy snowfall set in, which forced the runners in both the classic andin the classic race and later in the half marathon over 21 kilometers in the free technique.Despite the difficult conditions, strong performances were shown and exciting races were held.

In the men's classic race, the decision remained open for a long time: a leading group of around ten athletes remained together for long stretches.In the difficult final spurt in the fresh snow, Markus Köcheler won by a wafer-thin margin ahead of Jason Rüesch and Oscar Aas.In the women's race, Carla Nina Wohler came out on top and won by a clear margin ahead of Aurelia-Maxima Janzen and Franziska Müller.

The fresh snow also demanded everything from the athletes in the 21 km free technique race.Maxime Béguin won the men's race ahead of Candide Pralong and Nicola Müller.Giuliana Werro was the fastest in the women's race and won just ahead of local hero Rahel Imoberdorf.Third place went to Helena Guntern.

The Gommerlauf Village was an inviting place to linger

Away from the races, the varied supporting program offered the best entertainment.Around 4,000 spectators followed the action along the course and the race was also broadcast live on television.A visit to the event was definitely worthwhile, however, as the Gommerlauf Village offered a wide range of activitiesThe Gommerlauf Village, with a wide range of activities for athletes as well as for connoisseurs, invited visitors to linger and was very popular.Children's face painting made children's eyes sparkle.

The "moving grandstand" once again offered a special experience:A special Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn train allowed the public to accompany the athletes on their way through the Goms.

Thanks to partners and helpers

The success of the 54th International Goms Run would not have been possible without the active support of the transportation partner MGBahn and the numerous other partners.Special thanks also go to the 150 or so volunteers who ensured the success of the event with their dedicated and tireless efforts.

All rankings and further information on the International Gommerlauf can be found at

www.gommerlauf.chhttps://results.datasport.com/de/anlass/gommerlauf-2026/rankinghttps://results.datasport.com/de/anlass/gommerlauf-2026/ranking

Special Olympics: The sporting action continues next weekend

The Special Olympics cross-country skiing races for people with special needs are traditionally held a week after the International Gommerlauf. On Sunday, 1.March 2026, athletes from all over Switzerland will compete in the Goms Nordic Center over distances offrom all over Switzerland over distances of 500 meters as well as one, three and six kilometers.Spectators are cordially invited to support the participants on site and create a motivating atmosphere.

Media contact:

Maria-Sol Burgener, maria-sol.burgener@goms.ch

Image and video material at:

https://www.swisstransfer.com/d/a365a835-99c5-43c3-bc04-dc7f75c948f9

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