Ebba Andersson of Sweden claimed gold in the women’s 50 kilometer classical cross-country ski race at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, marking the first time the event has been contested at the Games. The longer distance replaced the previous women’s 30 kilometer race, offering a new challenge for elite skiers.
Andersson completed the course in 2 hours, 16 minutes, and 28.2 seconds, finishing 2 minutes and 15.3 seconds ahead of Norway’s Heidi Weng. Switzerland’s Nadja Kälin secured the bronze medal, trailing the winner by 6 minutes and 41.5 seconds.
Latvia’s Patrīcija Eiduka achieved the best result in the nation’s Olympic cross-country skiing history, finishing 11th place, 9 minutes and 13.9 seconds behind Andersson. Eiduka previously competed in the 10 kilometer freestyle, finishing 15th, and the 20 kilometer skiathlon, placing 23rd, at these Games.
A total of 41 athletes started the race, with 33 crossing the finish line.
Neutral athlete Darya Nepryayeva was initially awarded 11th place but was later disqualified for using skis that did not belong to her during a changeover.
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina will conclude this evening.
