We’ve reported previously how svexa is helping the Polish National Ski Team achieve its best results in years. As we start the new year we’re thrilled to extend our congratulations to the team for their latest outstanding performances, at the Tour de Ski 2025-2026.
Poland has a storied history in the Tour de Ski, largely thanks to international superstar Justyna Kowalczyk who claimed victory four times, tying for the most wins by a female athlete in the event’s history. Yet, despite this legacy, Poland had never before had more than two athletes complete the full tour in the same year – until now.
This year, history was made: seven Polish athletes completed the Tour, showcasing remarkable depth and talent across the team. Congratulations to:
- Eliza Rucka-Michalek – 25th overall
- Monika Skinder – 29th overall
- Aleksandra Kolodziej – 43rd overall
- Magdalena Kobielusz – 44th overall
- Sebastian Bryja – 54th overall
- Piotr Jarecki – 66th overall
- Maciej Starega – 68th overall
Several performances stood out as particularly impressive. Eliza Rucka-Michalek delivered a career milestone by finishing 6th in the 5k wave start skate race on December 31st, marking the highest World Cup placement for an individual Polish athlete since 2017. Her 25th place overall also represents the strongest finish since Dominik Bury’s 23rd place in 2022-2023.
On the women’s side, Monika Skinder also delivered top-tier results. She placed in the top 30 twice and finished overall 29th, along the way securing 15th place in the classic sprint – on the same course as the Olympics later this season – tying her best individual World Cup finish ever.
For the men, Sebastian Bryja led the way in the overall standings with 54th, while Kamil Bury and Maciej Starega turned in impressive individual performances in the classic sprint, finishing 20th and 25th respectively.
Svexa’s Director of Applied Sports and elite XC ski coach Olof Hedberg praised the team’s achievements: “I expected some good results from Poland, but the depth and quality of performances from so many athletes was a surprise. The Polish coaches have done tremendous work, and it shows in the remarkable improvements across the team. Athletes are hitting new personal bests and taking their ski racing to an entirely new level—it’s truly impressive.”
We at Svexa are proud to have supported the team and look forward to seeing what comes next. Congratulations to the entire Polish National Ski Team on this historic achievement!
Olof Hedberg leads svexa’s work in cross-country skiing, including our partnerships with the Polish Ski Association, and Sollefteå Ski Gymnasium.
