Mar 5 • 23:02 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El Mundo

Kilian Jornet: "I have never wanted to die on the mountain and I never will"

Kilian Jornet discusses his views on mountain sports and his switch back to competition after focusing on personal challenges.

Kilian Jornet, a multiple-time world champion in mountain skiing, shares his perspective on competition and personal challenges as he approaches an important milestone age of 50. He candidly admits that he considers himself an older athlete and recognizes the need to take care of his health to maintain his level of activity. Jornet also emphasizes that he has always wished to steer clear of dangerous situations in the mountains, contradicting the often romanticized notion of athletes pushing their limits at all costs.

Reflecting on the shift of ski mountaineering to Olympic status, Jornet expresses his reluctance to participate in the Games due to the format of shorter sprint races, which he feels strips away the essence of the sport. His preference lies in longer, more challenging races that reflect the true spirit of mountain sports. He praises athletes who adapted to the Olympic constraints but signals a hope for the future where longer distances might be included in events, expressing the power and authenticity of endurance challenges in the mountains.

As he transitions back to competitive racing, Jornet is set to participate in the UTMB, one of the most prestigious mountain races globally. This move comes after his recent focus on personal expeditions in the Alps and elsewhere, suggesting a desire to reconnect with the racing aspect of his career while still valuing the unique experiences that come with spending time in the mountains. This blend of competition and personal challenge encapsulates Jornet's approach to his sport as he prepares for the next chapter in his athletic journey.

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