September 19, 2012 (Oberhof, GER) – Today, 19th September, marks the 100-day milestone for the seventh edition of the Viessmann FIS Tour de Ski performance by Craft Sportswear to get underway in Oberhof (GER). Throughout the period from December 29th to January 6, 2013, the traditional event will feature 47km of racing for the ladies and 84km for the male competitors.

Due to the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships scheduled in Val di Fiemme (ITA) from February 20th until March 3rd, the Tour will be shorter this season, featuring just seven stages in nine days.

Traditionally, the Tour kicks off in Oberhof with a free technique prologue on Saturday and a classical pursuit competition on Sunday. Unlike in the previous editions, Oberhof will be the only German host this year.

On 1st January, Switzerland will host the first Tour stage in its history. A free technique sprint will be held in Val Müstair, the home of cross-country star and triple Tour de Ski winner, Dario Cologna. After another rest day, it will be time for the first Italian stages in Cortina and Toblach. The men’s free technique pursuit race from Cortina to Toblach and the ladies’ 15km free are scheduled on 3rd January. The day after, short classical individual start competitions will take place in Toblach before moving for the final phase of the Tour in Val di Fiemme.

Traditionally the FIS Tour de Ski will conclude in Val di Fiemme on 6th January where the new Tour King and Queen will be crowned and receive 400 World Cup points for their overall victories.

For more information, visit www.fiscrosscountry.com