Jens Luraas Oftebro dominates SGP opener in Bischofshofen

Jens Luraas Oftebro (NOR) delivered a commanding performance to win the first Men’s FIS Nordic Combined Summer Grand Prix competition of 2026 in Bischofshofen (AUT).

In incredibly hot temperatures, the Norwegian laid the foundation for his victory already at noon on the HS 142. Oftebro produced the furthest jump of the day with 142 meters and 134.4 points, giving him the lead ahead of the 10 km roller ski race through the city in the afternoon.

His brother Einar Luraas Oftebro (NOR) followed in second place after landing at 137.5 meters and scoring 128.4 points. He started the roller ski race 24 seconds behind Jens.

Richard Stenzel (GER) completed the top three after the jumping round with 132 meters and 121.7 points, heading onto the course 51 seconds behind the leader.

With eight laps of the 1.3 km city course ahead of them, Jens Luraas Oftebro immediately set a high pace and quickly extended his advantage.

After 2.5 km, the Norwegian had already increased his lead to 39.1 seconds. By the 3.8 km mark, he was 51 seconds ahead of his brother, continuing to push despite the intense heat.

Behind the two Norwegians, the fight for the remaining podium position developed into a close battle. Stenzel dropped back, allowing Thomas Rettenegger (AUT) to move into third after 3.8 km and lead a chasing group including Kristjan Ilves (EST), Richard Stenzel (GER), Franz-Josef Rehrl (AUT), Julian Schmid (GER), Jiri Konvalinka (CZE) and Stefan Rettenegger (AUT).

At the front, Jens Luraas Oftebro remained untouchable. He maintained his strong pace throughout the race and had stretched his advantage over Einar to 1:13.6 minutes after 7.5 km.

There was no catching him on the final laps. Oftebro brought his lead safely to the finish to secure a dominant victory in the opening competition of the Summer Grand Prix.

Einar Luraas Oftebro defended second place to complete a Norwegian one-two, finishing 1:18.3 minutes behind his brother.

The final podium position was decided on the last lap, when Stefan Rettenegger (AUT) managed to break away from the chasing group. He crossed the finish line in third place, 1:41.2 minutes behind the winner.