Information for spectators
Public events and information on competitions
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CISM World Orienteering Championships
More than 200 athletes from 26 nations are taking part in the CISM World Orienteering Championships in Stans and the surrounding area. The CISM, or International Military Sports Council, is the international federation for military sport. The CISM World Orienteering Championships are military world championships. The participants are the world’s best athletes.
The long-distance, relay and sprint events take the athletes to different parts of Central Switzerland.
Swiss athletes
Six women and six men have been selected to represent Switzerland.
Women:
Simona Aebersold, Sofie Bachmann, Anna Gasser, Lilly Graber, Paula Gross, Seline Sannwald
Men:
Fabian Aebersold, Reto Egger, Tino Polsini, Riccardo Rancan, Pascal Schärer and Benjamin Wey
Substitutes: Timo Tantanini
City-Sprint in Sarnen
On 25 October 2026, from 9 am to 12 noon, the City Sprint will take place in Sarnen. The finish line is located near the Sarnen Regional Sports Centre.
High Speed, little Time
Athletes start at one-minute intervals and race individually against the clock. The women’s course is 3.8 kilometers long, while the men’s is slightly longer at around four kilometers. The target winning times are just 12 to 15 minutes. It is a short, intense race that demands speed and quick decisions. Through narrow streets, open squares and winding passageways, the athletes must stay calm and navigate with a map and compass while running at full speed. An artificial labyrinth made of barriers adds another challenge. Together, these elements promise an exciting battle for medals in the heart of Sarnen.
Sprint Stars up close
The format also has plenty to offer for spectators. With short gaps between starts, several athletes are always out on the course at the same time. At the public finish arena at Sarnen’s regional sports centre, fans can watch the runners cross the line up close. Among those competing for medals is Swiss star Simona Aebersold, who has won two world championship titles this season. Tomáš Křivda from Czechia, this year’s overall second in World Cup, will also be racing alongside other top names. The first runners start at 9 am. The last women start at 10.30 am and the last men at 11.30 am. At 12.45 pm, the top finishers will be honored at the flower ceremony at the venue.
Opening ceremony
The opening ceremony will take place on 20 October 2026 at 5.30 pm in the village square in Stans.