Bernese Oberland athletes start the X-Alps: Who will win?

Bernese Oberland athletes start the X-Alps: Who will win?

The adventure is just around the corner: The 12th edition of the Red Bull X-Alps, which is considered the largest adventure race in the world, begins in Kitzbühel on June 15, 2025. Here, hike-and-fly athletes from all over the world compete against each other to cover up to 1,283 kilometers through five Alpine countries. This places extreme physical and psychological demands on the participants, who have to hike, run and fly up to 150 kilometers per day.

There are also some strong athletes at the start this year, including the favorite Chrigel Maurer from Adelboden. He has already won the X-Alps eight times in a row and, despite health challenges, including Lyme disease, plans to show off again in 2025. “The competitive pressure is noticeable,” says Maurer, who not only boasts of his previous successes, but also has to reckon with strong challengers, including Patrick von Känel, Lars Meerstetter and Nicola Heiniger from the Bernese Oberland, all of whom are in top form. Celine Lorenz from Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the only woman who takes part in the competition and impresses the scene with her participation.

The route and challenges

The X-Alps 2025 route requires not only endurance but also strategic skills from the athletes. Over 4,000 meters of altitude have to be overcome every day, and the changeable weather conditions are crucial when deciding on the competition. There are 35 athletes from 17 countries at the start who not only have to fight their way through breathtaking landscapes, but also through legendary mountain peaks like the Niesen.

With a daily distance of up to 100 kilometers and unpredictable weather, the X-Alps are anything but a walk. Athletes must decide when to fly and when to run, which creates an additional mental challenge. “It’s important to make the right decisions,” emphasizes Maurer, “because the weather can change at any time.” All of their fitness and preparation will be put to the test as they navigate over mountains and valleys and through extreme weather conditions.

Process and live tracking

The race lasts nearly two weeks, starting with a prologue on June 12, 2025. The first real day of competition is June 15, and live tracking allows fans to follow their favorite participants in real time. The route takes the athletes through some of the most impressive regions in the Alps, and enthusiasm among spectators is already growing.

“I’m looking forward to the X-Alps,” says Maurer, “even though I’m working with a new team that we haven’t tested yet.” This could be both a win and a challenge. The defending champion is confident, but will not underestimate the strong competition, especially from the young athletes from France and Germany.

The X-Alps 2025 promise not only physical but also mental adventures. Fans can look forward to exciting competitions while the athletes face the most demanding challenges. “It won’t be easy, but we are ready,” Maurer concluded. A good hand and the right strategy will be crucial to stay ahead in this battle for victory.

For all adventure seekers and sports enthusiasts - it's worth watching, because behind every participant there is a gripping story of hardship and victory.