TESERO, Italy – Austrian cross-country skier Teresa Stadlober is preparing for a poignant and potentially crowning achievement at the Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina 2026. The 33-year-old will compete in the inaugural women’s 50km classic race on Sunday, a competition she hopes to dedicate to the memory of her recently deceased grandmother. Stadlober, a four-time Olympian, enters the race as a medal contender, carrying both the weight of grief and the ambition for a successful conclusion to the Games for Austria.
The 50km event marks a historic moment for women’s cross-country skiing, extending the traditional distance from 30km. Stadlober, who has already secured top-ten finishes in the skiathlon and 10km events at these Games, views this race as a special opportunity. “It’s an incredible honor to be there,” she said in an interview with ORF, adding that she has been meticulously preparing for this event for months. ORF reports that Stadlober is aiming for a medal to cap off the Games for the Austrian team.
However, the lead-up to this race has been deeply emotional for Stadlober. Her grandmother passed away earlier this week, a loss that has profoundly impacted her. She shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, stating she would race with her grandmother in her heart, seeking strength from her memory. Nachrichten.at detailed Stadlober’s emotional tribute, highlighting the significant role her grandmother played in her life and career.
A Brutally Tough Course and a Questionable Opponent
The course in Tesero is expected to be exceptionally challenging, with a demanding 1,900 meters of altitude gain. Stadlober anticipates a “brutally tough race,” acknowledging the difficulty demonstrated by the men’s race held on Saturday. Her climbing ability should be an asset, but strategic pacing will be crucial. “It’s a highly long race, a lot can happen,” Stadlober stated, emphasizing the need for mental fortitude.
Adding to the complexity of the race is the uncertain participation of Swedish favorite Frida Karlsson, who is currently battling a fever. Stadlober acknowledged Karlsson’s impressive form, noting her dominance in the skiathlon and 10km skating race. “She destroyed us in the skiathlon and also in the 10 km skating race,” Stadlober said, adding she is curious to see how Karlsson approaches the race if she competes. SN.at reports on Stadlober’s assessment of Karlsson’s potential race strategy.
Seeking a First Major Victory and a Family Legacy
Despite a consistent career, Stadlober is still seeking her first major victory. She has come close in 50km races, achieving an 11th-place finish at the World Championships in Trondheim last year and several fourth-place results. Her bronze medal in the skiathlon at the 2022 Beijing Olympics demonstrates her potential for podium finishes. “But I’m still missing a podium over the 50 kilometers. I already have several fourth places,” she admitted.
Her father and ÖSV cross-country skiing boss, Alois Stadlober, believes a medal is within reach. “That’s the big goal. The chance is very big, I think. But everything has to be right. But if everything fits, she’ll definitely be in the medal circle,” he stated. Teresa Stadlober has not yet decided if this will be her final Olympic race, leaving her future in the sport open-ended.
The importance of well-prepared skis was also emphasized by Stadlober, stating, “There is no medal without fast skis.” She understands that even the smallest details can make a difference in a race of this magnitude.
As Stadlober prepares to race, she carries the memory of her grandmother, a source of unwavering support throughout her career. “Grandparents are our biggest fans,” she said, acknowledging their crucial role in an athlete’s journey.
The women’s 50km classic race promises to be a compelling event, filled with both athletic competition and emotional resonance. Stadlober’s performance will not only represent her personal ambition but also serve as a tribute to her grandmother’s enduring legacy.
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