Finnmarksløpet takes a new step and launches a brand-new class: FL-300. The new 300 km distance will premiere in 2027 and will help make Finnmarksløpet accessible to more participants.
In FL-300, participants can start with up to eight dogs. The distance and format have been developed in collaboration with Alta Trekkhundklubb, with the aim of lowering the threshold for taking part in Finnmarksløpet – while at the same time preserving the authentic and raw Arctic nature experience that Finnmarksvidda has to offer.
– FL-300 is a targeted initiative to further develop Finnmarksløpet and attract new participants. We want to make it easier for more people to take part in the winter’s most beautiful adventure, says Svanhild Pedersen, Acting Managing Director of Finnmarksløpet.
– This is something we have been working on for a long time, and it is very exciting to finally be able to launch the new distance. We are eager to see how the class will be received and look forward to welcoming both new and experienced mushers to Finnmark in 2027, says Berit Seljestokken, Head of the Sports Committee at Alta Trekkhundklubb.
A classic Finnmarksløpet experience
The new distance will have its start and finish in Alta and follows a trail with well-known checkpoints: Jotka, Jergul, Karasjok and back to Jotka before the finish in Alta.
The trail will give participants a varied and authentic Finnmark experience, with open plateaus, weather-exposed sections and technical challenges that test both dogs and mushers.
More activity along the trail
The new class will hopefully also contribute to increased activity along the entire trail.
– More participants create more life in the start area, at the checkpoints and at the finish. That means a lot for spectators, volunteers and the local communities that are such an important part of Finnmarksløpet, says Pedersen.
Looking ahead to a historic start in 2027
With FL-300, Finnmarksløpet takes an important step in the further development of the race.
– We are looking forward to March 2027 and the start of the very first FL-300. This will be a new milestone for Finnmarksløpet, says Pedersen.
More information about registration, qualification and regulations for FL-300 will be published on Finnmarksløpet’s website during the summer and autumn.
