4X TdS winner Justyna Kowalczyk (POL) © Nordic Focus

September 12, 2014 – Last week, the main team involved with the FIS Tour de Ski preparations visited the four Tour host venues of Oberstdorf (GER), Val Müstair (SUI), Toblach and Val di Fiemme (both ITA). The 9th edition of the Viessmann FIS Tour de Ski performance by Craft Sportswear is scheduled to take place from 3rd-11th January 2015.

Site inspections began in Oberstdorf (GER), which is welcomed back to the Tour de Ski calendar after athree-year absence. The intensive discussion covered plans for enhanced activities for spectators, optimising the competition schedule and inspecting the competition courses. As it has become a tradition, the FIS Tour de Ski will get underway with a team presentation, this time taking place in the town centre of Oberstdorf on 2nd January.

Switzerland has become a successful host of the FIS Tour de Ski with two venues of Val Müstair and Lenzerheide. In 2015 it will be the home resort of Dario Cologna – Val Müstair – which will host Stage 3 of the Tour and the Organising Committee continues to develop the event and presented many new ideas and projects. The sprint in free technique will take place in the afternoon of 6th January and spectators both on-site and in front of the TV will have a chance to enjoy thrilling competitions in the beautiful landscape of the Swiss Alps. Moving to Toblach, the Tour schedule foresees two competitions for the fifth time.

In Val di Fiemme, the discussions centreed on organisational aspects, fan entertainment and ensuring high quality TV coverage by building upon the exciting competitions from last season. The FIS Tour de Ski will traditionally conclude with the final climb to the top of Alpe Cermis on 11th January 2015.

“We’re very satisfied with the progress for the Tour de Ski, now in its 9th edition. We have enthusiastic Organising Committees on board and we can look forward to exciting battles,” FIS Cross-Country Race Director Pierre Mignerey said.

For more information, visit www.fis-ski.com/cross-country