FISU University Games golds for Futka and Hjelseth

FISU University Games golds for Futka and Hjelseth

The first Ski Orienteering gold medals at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Turin, Italy went to Amanda Yli Futka (FIN) and Teodor Mo Hjelseth (NOR) after Sunday’s sprint.

Here, newly crowned U23 World Champion Hjelseth took a narrow win, just two seconds ahead of Sweden’s Jonatan Ståhl, who showed great form in last weekend’s World Cup races.

Czechia’s early leader Josef Nagy came third, 11 seconds down on Hjelseth after around 13 minutes of high speed Ski Orienteering on the tracks in Pragelato.

“It feels amazing. I’m really satisfied and so happy—I didn’t expect this to happen! Jonatan has beaten me 10 out of 10 times this year, so to come out on top today feels incredible,” Hjelseth said after the race.

Then it was the women’s turn, and favourite Amanda Yli Futka (FIN) did not disappoint, taking a big win by 36 seconds ahead of Norway’s Idunn Strand. Delia Giezendanner secured a medal for Switzerland by finishing third, 43 seconds behind the Finn.

Strand, Futka and Giezendanner on the podium in Pragelato. Photo: Torino 2025 FISU Games

“Today’s race was amazing, and I’m so happy with my performance. I really liked the track and the weather conditions—it all came together perfectly. I’m thrilled to have been able to take the win today,” Amanda Yli Futka said.

Find results and GPS-tracking in the links in Eventor.

Re-live the broadcast from the Sprint at FISU.TV

Ski Orienteering is back on the programme at the Games in Italy on Tuesday, with the sprint relay.

The competition can be followed on FISU.TV from 14:30-16:30 CET (UTC +1)