Bad Gastein Criterium to conclude Ski Classics opening block

The Ski Classics World Championship Season XVIII will conclude its opening block on December 20, 2026, with the Bad Gastein Criterium in Sportgastein, Austria. This 36-kilometer mass start race serves as the fourth and final event of the Bad Gastein Tour, determining the tour's prize money winners.

The course consists of five laps on a high-altitude track, featuring two sprints and two climbs of the legendary “Wall.” Race officials note that early positioning is critical due to the demanding nature of the climbs. The event will award Champion, Sprint, and Climbing points toward the overall season standings.

Bad Gastein has hosted Ski Classics since 2022. In addition to the elite races, the region hosts various open events, including the Vertical City Sprint and several classic distance races for challengers. The area is noted for its Belle Époque architecture and thermal spa facilities.