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He had to listen a lot after the failed start to the season. He’s out of shape, more insecure than ever, even the premature end of his career has already been conjured.
It’s no wonder the 34-year-old is relieved of a heavy load on the Tour de Ski when he steps back on the podium for the first time in a year on Saturday. He shows it to all the critics and lets them know right away. A penetrating look at the camera, finger in front of pursed lips. The gesture says: Shut up!
Cologna has gone to the rest
Even before the start of the Tour de Ski, the Münstertal made it clear that they would remain calm and not worry about form. After all, the World Cup in February is the main goal. And before the Olympics in Pyeongchang, he had already been ruled out before going to his fourth Olympic gold.
The tour begins with this pedestal and the following gesture. Cologna knows very well that things usually turn out well if they start well.
No podium in the third stage
Also in the third stage (chasing more than 15 km of skating) Super-Dario got off to a good start from fourth place. He quickly passed to Sweden’s Svensson and, along with second-placed Malzew (Russ), set out to chase the leader Bolschunow (Russ).
So Cologna has a bit more trouble in deep, heavy snow. He has to let Malzew pass mid-race, then he gets stuck in the chasing group with Manificat (Fr), Jakimuschkin (Russ) and Spizow (Russ).
But this time it’s too much for him. Manificat and Spizow walk away, Cologna fights Jakimuschkin and is sixth.
In case of Bolshunov victory: Dario Cologna finished sixth in stage 3(01:18)
Cologna in the first group to Italy
Alexander Bolshunov’s victory is never in danger. He remains 53 seconds ahead of Malzew and the strong Manificat in the overall standings. Cologna ends his career in peace, secures fifth place overall and remains secure in the leading group. He is 27 seconds from the podium.
Candide Pralong remains the next Swiss at 19th, Jonas Baumann is 22nd and Beda Klee also scores points at 28th. He continues Tuesday at Toblach (It). There is a single starting race of more than 15 km of skating in the program.
Fähndrich is in the top ten
The 10 km of women and there is a one-two of America. Jessica Diggins wins ahead of Rosie Brennan. Little behind the duo follows the Swedish Frida Karlsson.
Nadine Fähndrich also shows a good performance and is easily in the top ten. The 25-year-old crosses the finish line in eighth position. He’s less than a minute and a half behind Diggins in the overall standings.
