The basics in 1 minute

The aim

Cross-country skiers race a marked snow course using their own effort. Events include distance races, sprints and relays, with classical or free technique.

Scoring

Interval races compare elapsed times; mass starts use finishing order. Sprint qualification leads to elimination heats, while pursuit start gaps reflect earlier results.

Key rules

• Follow the required technique: skating is forbidden in classical races, while free technique permits different skiing styles.
• Follow the route and checkpoints, overtake safely and do not obstruct opponents.
• In a relay, make the required hand-to-body exchange inside the exchange zone; pushing the next skier is forbidden.