Switzerland’s Nordic community sets the stage for an exciting and inclusive winter season

The growing integration of laser rifle systems is transforming Nordic sport training across Switzerland. Increasingly, ski clubs are adopting these systems for their biathlon and cross-country training sessions, providing young athletes with a safe, modern, and environmentally friendly way to develop marksmanship and focus.

In a further step forward, laser systems are now being incorporated into the official J+S (Youth and Sports) training courses for both cross-country skiing and biathlon, ensuring that the next generation of coaches and athletes are familiar with the latest technology from the start of their sporting journey.

Expanding opportunities for young athletes

The Grand Prix Migros Nordic series returns this season, building on last year’s successful pilot and featuring for the first time an exciting biathlon competition where the pure skiing time also counts toward a cross-country ranking — allowing both disciplines to be represented while staying united as one Nordic family. All Nordic events will be held alongside the prestigious Alpine Grand Prix Migros series at the same venues and dates, bringing together the entire Swiss-Ski community for a celebration of sport, fun, and shared experiences.

At the same time, the “Biathlon for You” school project in the canton of Graubünden continues to grow, reaching more and more pupils directly in their physical education classes. Through playful and accessible laser biathlon lessons, children experience the excitement of combining movement and focus — sparking curiosity and enthusiasm for Nordic sports in a natural school setting.

From their school participation, pupils were then invited to the first Graubünden Schools Championship held with laser rifles at the World Championships stadium in Lenzerheide, where they could duel and test their skills in an inspiring real-world biathlon atmosphere.

Upcoming events and key dates

• 26–31 December 2025 – Swiss Youth Cross-Country Ski Camp, Engelberg

• 2–4 January 2026 – Nordic Festival Kandersteg

• 12 January 2026 – Grand Prix Migros Nordic, Wildhaus

• 18 January 2026 – Grand Prix Migros Nordic, Schönried

• 1 February 2026 – Grand Prix Migros Nordic, Les Diablerets

• 27–28 March 2026 – Grand Prix Migros Nordic Finale, Crans-Montana

• 30 May 2026 – Altar Servers’ Gathering Uri, Andermatt

• 12–14 June 2026 – Sports Festival, Sarnen

• 19 June 2026 – Cantonal School Sports Day Obwalden, Sachseln

A promising season ahead

With these initiatives and events, Switzerland’s Nordic community is setting the stage for an exciting and inclusive winter season. The combination of innovation, youth engagement, and strong regional collaboration ensures that the future of Nordic sports in Switzerland continues to shine brightly.

Photos: Swiss‑Ski