Mora, Sweden – Oskar Kardin of Lager 157 Ski Team etched his name into Vasaloppet history on Sunday, winning the iconic 90-kilometer cross-country ski race in a time of 4:14:54. The victory, a career highlight for the 34-year-vintage Swede, wasn’t without its drama, as a broken ski threatened to derail his chances early in the race. This marks a significant moment in Vasaloppet’s 103-year history, a competition deeply rooted in Swedish tradition and athleticism.
Just 24.3 kilometers into the grueling race, Kardin encountered a significant setback when a ski pole pierced his left ski. “I got a pole right through the ski and felt it braking,” Kardin explained to SVT, as reported by Göteborgs-Posten. Quick thinking and a crucial assist from the family of a competitor proved pivotal. He signaled to his Lager 157 Ski Team for assistance, and remarkably, received a spare ski from Petter Myhlback, father of fellow racer Alvar Myhlback.
A Team Effort and a Temporary Setback
The unexpected ski change forced Kardin to continue on two different skis, a challenging situation that initially cost him the lead. “I got the message from Petter that he had Alvar’s spare pair as an option, and I thought that was better than the broken one I had,” Kardin said. Despite the disruption, he remained within striking distance of the front of the pack, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination. The incident underscored the collaborative spirit often seen within the Ski Classics circuit, where competitors can find themselves unexpectedly aiding one another.
Kardin’s Late Surge Secures Victory
As the race progressed, Kardin found his rhythm and, in the final stretch, unleashed a decisive surge. He pulled away from the leading group, crossing the finish line in Mora as the first skier, securing his first Vasaloppet title. “This is something I’ve trained for a long time,” a visibly emotional Kardin told SVT. “It’s hard to recognize if it’s enough, but when I got a gap, I knew it was my chance.” Prior to this victory, Kardin’s best finish in Vasaloppet had been seventh place.
A Swedish Sweep on the Podium
The race concluded with a dominant performance from Swedish skiers. Alvar Myhlback, the defending champion, finished just four seconds behind Kardin, claiming second place. Nils Dahlsten rounded out the podium, securing third place and completing a clean sweep for Sweden. The Lager 157 Ski Team celebrated a remarkable team achievement, with its athletes occupying the top two positions. “It’s such happiness,” Kardin said, celebrating the team’s success. “It was incredible when I won last year, but to take a triple with the team is just unbelievable.”
Kardin’s win comes with a hint of potential retirement. “Now I can finish my career,” he stated, suggesting that this victory represents a fitting culmination of his years of dedication to the sport. The 2026 Vasaloppet will undoubtedly be remembered as a testament to Kardin’s perseverance and the power of teamwork.
The race, which began in Berga near Sälen, saw a large field of competitors navigate the challenging 90km course. Coverage of the event was broadcast live on SVT1 and SVT Play, allowing fans across Sweden and beyond to witness the historic race. Those interested in following future events can find live updates and reports on SVT’s website.
Looking ahead, the focus will shift to the recovery of the athletes and preparation for upcoming Ski Classics events. The Vasaloppet remains a cornerstone of the cross-country skiing calendar, and the 2026 edition has undoubtedly added another memorable chapter to its storied history.
What did you think of Kardin’s incredible comeback? Share your thoughts and reactions in the comments below, and be sure to share this story with fellow cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
