59th ČEZ Jizerská 50: Record-Breaking Edition Reinforces the Power of a Legend

The 59th edition of the ČEZ Jizerská 50 will be remembered as one of the most successful in the race’s history. With a record-breaking 9,821 participants, the event once again proved that it is far more than a race — it is a true phenomenon that brings together elite athletes, thousands of amateur skiers, and a wide community of fans. Including the individual event Ve stopě Jizerské 50, held one week earlier, this year’s program featured nine races across seven race days. The organizers now aim to maintain this impressive scale for the upcoming anniversary edition, which will take place from February 11–14, 2027.

A Full Field and World-Class Competition

As expected, the highlight of the weekend was Sunday’s main race – the 50 km classic event – which attracted 4,800 participants and sold out more than a month before race day. The start line once again brought together world-class professionals and recreational skiers chasing personal goals.

Amund Riege secured victory after launching a decisive attack approximately three kilometers before the finish, while Anikken Gjerde Alnaes successfully defended her title in the women’s race. Thanks to favorable weather conditions and the outstanding work of the organizing team and Jizerská o.p.s., the race was held in full and reaffirmed its status as one of the prestigious Grand Classics — the four most iconic long-distance ski races in the world.

ORLEN Sprint Joins the Pro Tour

Another milestone came with the ORLEN Sprint, which was included in the Ski Classics Pro Tour for the first time. The spectator-friendly night format created an electrifying atmosphere at the Bedřichov stadium. Sweden’s young talent Alvar Myhlback claimed his third consecutive victory, while Norway’s Julie Kvale Stoestad celebrated her first-ever Ski Classics win in the women’s event.

Jizerská 50 Gives Back

Charity remains an essential part of the Jizerská 50. Through the EPP – Pomáhej pohybem app, participants generated CZK 290,751 by completing kilometers on the course and in the ČEZ Energy Zone, supporting Jizerská o.p.s. Another CZK 70,002 was raised for a biodiversity project in the Liberec region in cooperation with the Ivan Dejmal Foundation for Nature Protection.

Participants also contributed CZK 151,600 through the Pomozte dětem initiative to support a young beneficiary, once again highlighting how sport and community spirit can create meaningful impact.

Energy Beyond the Tracks

The event wasn’t just about racing. Two ČEZ Energy Fest events expanded the atmosphere beyond Bedřichov. Friday’s concert in Jablonec nad Nisou featured the band Poetika, while Saturday evening in Liberec included performances by Anna K. and the legendary Czech group Olympic.

Looking Ahead to the 60th Anniversary

While memories from this record-breaking edition are still fresh, attention is already turning toward the next milestone. The 60th anniversary edition of the ČEZ Jizerská 50 will take place from February 11–14, 2027.

Four days of cross-country skiing, emotions, world-class sport, and inspiring personal stories will once again create the unique atmosphere that only the Jizera Mountains can offer. The legend continues – stronger than ever.