Martin Nyenget opens World Cup season with a statement win – Edges Klæbo by 2.1 seconds
The men launched the 2025/26 Cross-Country World Cup season on Friday in Ruka, where Martin Nyenget delivered an impressive performance to claim victory in the 10 km classic interval-start race. Nyenget clocked 22:30.8, finishing 2.1 seconds ahead of Johannes Klæbo. The same margin separated Klæbo from third-place finisher Mika Vermeulen, who produced one of the day’s biggest surprises by securing a podium spot.
As often seen in Ruka, Norway’s depth was on full display, with six Norwegians finishing inside the top ten. Nyenget’s win was also somewhat unexpected, as Klæbo entered the race as the clear favourite.
Klæbo reflected on his performance after the finish:
“I think it was an okay race. I struggled a bit on the uphills, but it was good to finally get started, and now I’m just looking forward to the next races.”
A total of 109 men took part in the season opener. Among the other Nordic nations, Finland and Sweden each placed one athlete in the top ten. Finland’s Iivo Niskanen, a five-time Ruka winner, delivered a strong race and finished fifth. Sweden’s service team appeared to have nailed their preparations, but their top performer was Edvin Anger in ninth place.
Top 10 Results
- Martin Nyenget (NOR)
- Johannes Klæbo (NOR)
- Mika Vermeulen (AUT)
- Andreas Ree (NOR)
- Iivo Niskanen (FIN)
- Erik Valnes (NOR)
- Mattis Stenshagen (NOR)
- Didrik Tønseth (NOR)
- Edvin Anger (SWE)
- Hugo Lapalus (FRA)
Tomorrow the World Cup continues with the 10km classic sprint qualifiers at 8.55 (CET). The sprint finals start at 11.25 (CET).
Text: Väinö Helenius
Photos: Noora Luukkanen