The Grand Prix is ​​a skating competition that consists of a series of races within the marathon discipline, where natural ice is key and the most sought-after surface. The competition consists of several races spanning between 30 and 200 kilometers. Both men and women participate in these races.

Throughout the week, several Grand Prix races take place featuring international top athletes. Competitors race in both marathon and sprint disciplines, and the looped course makes it easy for spectators to follow the skaters as they pass multiple times and experience the excitement up close.

The Grand Prix in Luleå will be held on the sea ice of the Gulf of Bothnia, near the city centre. The Grand Prix competitions in Luleå in are the only official skating marathons held on sea ice.

Programme:

25 February 2026
Grand Prix 4 – LKAB Luleå Marathon Skating

26 February 2026
Grand Prix 5 – LKAB Luleå Sprint Skating

28 February 2026
Grand Prix Finale – LKAB Sea Ice Classic Luleå

An audience of millions worldwide

The interest in the Schaatsen races is very high and NOS, the largest news organization in the Netherlands, broadcasts all the Grand Prix races to several million television viewers worldwide!

The length of the natural ice track is approximately 7 kilometres. The marathoners will therefore skate several laps, which makes it easy for the public to  watch the competitions. The starting/finish line is ​​located in the southern harbour.

Read more on the organiser's website >>