September 23, 2012 – The defending overall World Cup winner and triple FIS Tour de Ski champion Dario Cologna is in midst of his preparations for the next season. FIS Newsflash had the chance to interview the Swiss cross-country ace prior to the Swiss Ski Nordic Weekend held in Andermatt (SUI) last weekend.

How has your summer been so far? Are you satisfied with your training?
DC: I had a very good summer. After the season I spent two weeks at the seaside. I enjoyed the warmth, the sun and travelled a little bit around. During the summer I could carry out the complete training as planned since I did not have any health problems. It’s difficult to say how good my shape is, but I think I’m on a good way.

Next winter the FIS Tour de Ski is coming to Switzerland for the first time – right to your home valley. How do you feel about that?
DC: I’m really looking forward to the Tour de Ski stage in my hometown. It will definitely be very special to be competing in front of the house in which my parents live. Competing in my home country is always perfect and at home it will be even better. I do not feel more pressure just because the stage takes place in Val Müstair. It is a nice feeling to have the race where all your friends and fans meet and cheer along the course.

Next winter there are two highlights: the FIS Tour de Ski and the Nordic World Ski Championships. What will be the keys to success in both events?
DC: I will compete both in the Tour and in the World Championships this season. I’m convinced that it is possible to be in great shape for both events. In order to ensure this, I will not do all of the World Cup competitions because it is important to have some training periods before big events to work on your shape.

What are your training plans for the autumn?
DC: We will go to Prad in South Tyrol at the end of September. In October, the plan is to train in Val Senales (ITA) before we travel to the North for the final preparation phase prior to the start of the World Cup. I will start my season in Gällivare (SWE) and then take part in the Ruka Triple in Kuusamo (FIN). I am going to sit out the World Cup competitions in Canada to prepare in the best way for the Tour. After the Tour I will see how my further plans will look like.