The International Ski Federation (FIS) is introducing the “hurricane start”.
This winter will bring the newest format in FIS’ attempt to modernize the Cross-Country sport. The Nordic Combined discipline is yet again (they also introduced the Team Sprint Relay) trying out a new start format, named “hurricane” after the shape the skiers line up inside the stadium.
 will give a 6-meter distance penalty when starting the Cross-Country race.</p><p><BR><center><img src=)
This race format will first be introduced at the World Cup in Lahti, Finland this winter. After the “hurricane start” is completed inside the stadium, the skiers head out on a normal 1.85 or 2.5 km long loop, which is skied 4 or 5 times (for a total of 7.5 km). The first skier across the finish wins the race.
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