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Register & pay

Pre-registration, registration, price, teams and your entry.

19 questions
Do I need to list all team members when I register a team?Curling, Ice Hockey, Synchronised Skating

No. Each player registers and pays on their own. Whoever creates the team gets a team code and shares it with the rest of the team. The others enter that code when they register, or add it later in My entries. Your team builds up as players join with the code.

What if two players from the same team both create a team? Don’t worry. We follow team entries and contact you to merge the two into one team code.

As a general rule:

  • 30 November 2027: ice hockey, curling and synchronised skating teams must be complete.
  • 31 December 2027: entries close. Until then, players can still join or change within their team.

If a team is not complete by 30 November, we contact the team so we can fix the competition schedule by 31 December. Check the exact rules for your sport on its sport page.

What if two players from the same team both create a team? Don’t worry. We follow team entries and contact you to merge the two into one team code.

How do I pay?

Online, when you register at registration page.

We work with Paytrail, so you can pay with Visa, Mastercard or American Express, with Google Pay or Apple Pay, or by bank transfer from a Finnish bank.

How do pairs register?Curling, Figure Skating, Winter Disc Golf
Pair events are for two people: figure skating pairs, ice dance and disc golf pairs. Each partner registers and pays their own entry.
  1. Add the sport to your basket.
  2. Choose the pair event.
  3. Write your partner’s name in the sport form.
  4. Your partner does the same with your name.
Don’t know your partner yet? Leave the name empty and add it later in My entries, in your sport form. Enter a pair event only if you are competing with a partner.
How do teams register?Curling, Ice Hockey, Synchronised Skating
Every player registers on their own and pays their own entry of 225 €. There is no team discount.
  1. Add the team sport to your basket: ice hockey, synchronised skating or curling.
  2. Choose your category in the sport form.
  3. Create a team, or enter the team code you got from a teammate. If you don’t have a code yet, leave it empty.
  4. Whoever creates the team gets the code in My teams and shares it with the rest of the team.
You can add or change your code in My entries until 31 December 2027. Without a code there is no accreditation for that sport.
How does the registration work?

Create your WWMG account with your personal details. Choose up to three sports, fill in the sport form for each one, and pay. After that, My Event is your own page. There you see your entries and teams, add your team code and update your club and accreditation details until entries close. To change your events, email us.

How early bird registration works?

If you have done the pre-registration before the end of Oct, you have received email with the registration link on Sun 1 Nov. Check your mailbox and spam.

The registration system will open on Monday 2 November at 14:00 (CET, GMT +1).

Something went wrong with my registration or payment. What do I do?

Email [email protected] with your name and the order reference from My Event, under My orders. Do not register a second time. We sort it out and confirm by email.

What if my event is full?Curling, Figure Skating, Ice Hockey

Some events have a limited number of places, mainly in figure skating, ice hockey and curling. A full event shows as Full. In figure skating you can join the waiting list for free, for up to three events. If a place opens, we contact you and you pay then. In ice hockey and curling, places go to complete teams in the order they are completed. Later teams go on a waiting list.

What if my figure skating category is full?Figure Skating
When an event is full, it shows Full in the registration shop. You can still join the waitlist. 👉 Join the list: https://masters2028.com/waitlist-figure-skating/ How it works
  • Joining is free. You only pay if we offer you a spot.
  • Up to 3 events. Tick the events, levels and age class you want to wait for.
  • We contact you. When a skater withdraws, or we can open more spots at your level, our office offers them in waitlist order.
  • Age classes follow the ISU Adult classes.
Full now doesn’t mean full for good. Nothing Stops Us.
When does registration open?

Pre-registered masters can register from Monday 2 November 2026 at 14:00 CET (15:00 Finnish time). They get the link by email. Registration opens to everyone on Monday 9 November 2026. Pre-registration has closed.

What is the difference between pre-registration and registration?

Pre-registration is free and does not bind you to anything. You get the news first and the registration link one week before everyone else, on 2 November 2026. Registration is your actual entry: you choose your sports and events, fill in your details and pay. It opens to everyone on 9 November 2026.

How much does it cost?

The game entry is 225 € per person, VAT 13.5 % included. Alpine skiing and cross-country skiing add a 25 € sport supplement: the Levi lift pass for alpine, the Masters World Cup entry for cross-country. In team sports every player pays their own entry.

Can I enter more than one sport?
Yes. One game entry covers up to three sports, with no fee for the second or third. Only the alpine and cross-country supplements (+25 € each) are added per sport. Every sport counts on its own: ski jumping and Nordic combined are two sports, and so are speed skating and short track, and figure skating and synchro. Check the dates first: alpine, biathlon, speed skating and trail run end by 18 January. Ski jumping, Nordic combined, short track, winter swimming and disc golf race from 20 January. All sports and dates
What does my entry include?

Competition entry with official training, your accreditation for the whole Games, the welcome package, the Opening Ceremony and the Farewell Party, medal ceremonies, and timing and results. With your accreditation you also get reduced fares on local transport. Details in 2027.

How do I pay?

Online, in the official shop at shop.masters2028.com. Your sports go in the basket like products, the sport form opens for each one, and you pay everything in one go.

How does a team register in synchro?Synchronised Skating

The skater who creates the team gets one team code and shares it with the team. Every member of the team registers with the code and pays their own entry. There is no team discount.

Can I change my entry after paying?

Yes. To change your events, email [email protected]. Changes are free until 30 November 2027, then 25 € per change. Your club, team code and accreditation details you update yourself in My Event until entries close. You can add a sport in the shop while you have fewer than three. Entries cannot be transferred to another person.

What if I have to cancel?

The same terms apply in every sport. Cancel by 30 June 2027 and you get a full refund minus a 50 € admin fee. From 1 July to 30 November 2027 you get 50 % back. From 1 December 2027 there is no refund. With a doctor's certificate you get 50 % back at any time. If the organiser cancels all your sports, 50 % is refunded. Entries cannot be transferred to another person.

When do entries close?

Individual sports close on 14 January 2028. Ice hockey, curling, synchronised skating, figure skating and alpine skiing close on 31 December 2027. A late fee of +50 € applies from 1 October 2027, and +100 € from 1 January 2028. Sports with a field limit can fill up earlier.

Who can enter

Age, level, licences, health and the rules that decide who races.

36 questions
Can athletes from Russia and Belarus take part?

Participants holding Russian or Belarusian citizenship may attend the Winter World Masters Games 2028 only if they also hold citizenship of another country or are permanent residents of a country other than Russia or Belarus, and they participate individually without using or displaying any Russian or Belarusian flags, symbols, names, abbreviations, colour combinations, anthems, or other national identifiers. This decision has been made by the Local Organising Committee and follows the policies of the Finnish Government and Finnish sports organisations.

If political situation changes, LOC is able to re-consider the decision any time.

LOC Statement (27 Oct 2026)

 

 

Who can take part?

Anyone aged 30 or over, at any level. Most sports go by your age on 31 December 2027 (born 1997 or earlier). Speed skating and short track go by your age on 1 July 2028. A few sports have their own rule: figure skating from 28 under the ISU Adult rules, synchronised skating teams at least 75 % aged 28+ and the rest 25+, curling Mixed Team from 35 and Mixed Doubles from 50.

 

Do I need to qualify?

No. There is no qualification and no selection. You enter, you race. Current national team members cannot enter, and some sports ask for a club membership or a licence.

How are the age classes set?Alpine Skiing

By your age on 31 December 2027, in five-year classes for women and men from 30–34 upwards.

Do I need a licence or a club membership?Alpine Skiing, Biathlon, Curling, Short Track, Speed Skating

It depends on the sport. You need one in:

- alpine Slalom and Super-G: a national licence with a FIS Masters code

- biathlon: a ski or biathlon club under your national federation

- ski jumping and Nordic combined: a ski club and a national ski federation licence for 2027–28

- speed skating, short track, figure skating and synchro: a skating club under an ISU member federation

Open to everyone: alpine Giant Slalom, cross-country, curling, ice hockey, winter swimming, winter trail run and disc golf.

Am I good enough?

Yes. The Games are for every level, from first-timers to former internationals. You race against your own age class, and the podium you chase is personal.

Do I compete for my country?

You compete as yourself. Your country is shown in the start lists and results, and in curling, hockey and relays you can team up with masters from other countries.

Is there a health check?Winter Swimming

You confirm your health and accept the waiver when you register. Your health is your own responsibility, as at any masters event. If you are unsure, see your doctor before you train for January.

Do I need insurance?

Yes. You need your own accident, health and liability insurance, including repatriation, valid in Finland for training and competition. You confirm it when you register. The organiser takes out no insurance for participants.

Is there doping control?

Yes, there might be. The WMS anti-doping rules and the WADA Code apply, and testing can take place in any sport.

Do I need a FIS licence?Alpine Skiing, Nordic Combined, Ski Jumping

For Slalom and Super-G, yes. You need a national licence with a FIS Masters code, and your races score FIS Masters Cup points. Giant Slalom is open: no licence, only your own insurance that covers alpine ski racing.

In Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined: No FIS licence. You need a ski club membership and a national ski federation licence for the 2027–28 season. The licence normally comes with your club membership.

 

Can I race every discipline?Alpine Skiing

With a national licence and a FIS Masters code you can race all three: Slalom on Saturday 15, Giant Slalom on Sunday 16 and Super-G on Tuesday 18 January. Without a licence you race Giant Slalom. All on one Games entry.

Who can enter?Biathlon

omen and men 30 or older on 31 December 2027 (born 1997 or earlier), members of a ski or biathlon club under their national ski or biathlon federation. Current national team members cannot enter.

Do I need an IBU licence?Biathlon

No. Club membership is enough. The races follow the IBU Event and Competition Rules.

 

Can I enter all three races?Biathlon

Yes. Sprint, individual and relay are all on one entry.

Do I need a licence?Cross-Country Skiing

No. Entry is open, with no federation or association membership needed. We ask for your ski club and your national masters association for the rankings. Current national team members cannot enter.

How is the age counted?Curling

By your age on 30 June 2027. For Mixed Team you must be 35 or older on that day, for Mixed Doubles 50 or older. There are no further age classes inside the events: everyone plays in one field.

How old do I need to be?Figure Skating

28 or older, under the ISU Adult rules. Your age class follows the ISU Adult classes, from Class I (28–37) upwards.

Which level do I enter?Figure Skating

Singles and ice dance: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Masters or Masters Elite. Pairs: Adult, Intermediate, Masters or Masters Elite. All under the ISU Adult rules, one level per discipline.

Can former elite skaters enter?Figure Skating

Current elite competitors cannot. The cut-off for former elite skaters is in the announcement.

What are the age rules for a team?Synchronised Skating

At least 75 % of the team must be 28 or older, and the rest 25 or older.

How big can a team be?Synchronised Skating

12 to 16 skaters on the ice, under the ISU Synchro rules.

Which category do we enter?Synchronised Skating

Adult or Masters, following the ISU Synchro definitions.

How is the team's category set?Ice Hockey

By the youngest player, by age on 31 December 2027. A team whose youngest player is 52 plays in 50+. Goalkeepers may be younger in the 40+, 50+ and 60+ categories: 40+ goalkeepers are 35 or older, 50+ goalkeepers 45 or older, 60+ goalkeepers 50 or older. There is no exception in 30+.

Can former professionals play?Ice Hockey

Yes, if you are not in a national team and have no professional contract in the 2027–28 season. The Games are for amateurs.

Can I do both events?Nordic Combined

There is one event, an individual Gundersen. Your age class sets your hill: 60+ jump HS40 on Friday 21 January, 30–59 jump HS70 on Saturday 22 January. The ski race for all classes is on Saturday 22 in the evening.

How old can I be?Ski Jumping

There is no upper limit. Classes run in five-year steps up to 90+.

Which distances do I skate in short track?Short Track

Aged 30–49: 1500, 500 and 1000 m. Aged 50 and over: 1000, 500 and 777 m. Plus one relay if you want.

What is the 777 m?Short Track

A masters distance for skaters aged 50 and over: seven laps of the short track oval.

How many distances can I skate?Speed Skating

Up to four of the six, over the three race days.

Can I also skate short track?Speed Skating

Yes. Long track ends on Tuesday 18 January and short track starts the same day with open ice. Short track counts as a separate sport on your entry.

Do I need to be a club member?Winter Swimming, Winter Trail Run

No. Winter Trail Run and Winter Swimming is open to everyone aged 30 or older. Club membership is recommended, not required.

Is there a 5 km?Winter Trail Run

Yes. On Saturday 15 January you choose 5 km or 10 km. The 21 km is on Sunday 16 January. All three are medal events.

How are the divisions set?Winter Disc Golf

Individual: women and men in ten-year classes 30–39, 40–49, 50–59 and 60+, by your age on 31 December 2027. You can choose to play in a younger class. Pairs: women's, men's and mixed pairs, one class each, all 30+.

Can I play pairs and individual?Winter Disc Golf

Yes. Both events are on one entry.

How are age groups set?

Mostly five-year classes for women and men: 30–34, 35–39 and upwards, in some sports to 90+. Relays and teams use ten-year classes. Each sport publishes its exact age rule.

Sports

Questions about one sport. Pick your sport below.

73 questions
Do we need a club membership for curling?Curling

No. Entry is open. We ask for your club and your national curling association in the registration.

What if my figure skating event is full?Figure Skating

It shows as Full in registration. Join the waiting list for free, for up to three figure skating events. If a place opens, we contact you and you pay then.

 

Is the lift pass included?Alpine Skiing

Yes, for race days, through the 25 € alpine supplement. Extra lift days can be bought as an add-on.

Can I race alpine and a sport in Lahti?Alpine Skiing

Yes. Alpine ends by 19 January. Ski jumping, Nordic combined, short track, winter swimming, cross-country and disc golf race from 20 January, so a second sport fits after the flight south.

Can I bring my own rifle?Biathlon

Yes, and you should. Bring your own small-bore biathlon rifle. Athletes from the EU use the European Firearms Pass. Athletes from outside the EU need a Finnish import permit for the rifle and the ammunition. The guidance sheet on the biathlon page lists the permits, customs rules and deadlines.

How many cross-country races can I enter?Cross-Country Skiing

Up to three individual races and one relay. For example middle classic, short free and long classic, plus the relay. Relay skiers are entered in individual races as well.

What is the 25 € supplement for?Cross-Country Skiing

The Masters World Cup entry: your WMA start number with a souvenir number, the start lists and the World Cup results.

Can we play with curlers from another country?Curling

Yes. Mixed-nation teams and pairs are welcome. You enter as a team, not as a nation.

Can I enter both Mixed Team and Mixed Doubles?Curling

No. One curling event per player, because the two events are played at the same time. You can add another WWMG sport.

Which wave do we play in?Ice Hockey

Your category decides it. Wave 1: W30+ and M50+. Wave 2: W40+, W50+ and M60+. Wave 3: M30+ and M40+.

How does the Gundersen start work?Nordic Combined

Your jump points are turned into a time gap. The best jumper starts first, and the first skier over the line wins.

Can I also enter ski jumping?Nordic Combined

Yes. Ski jumping is a separate sport on the same entry, up to three sports in all.

What protective kit do I need?Short Track

Helmet, cut-resistant suit, neck guard, shin and knee guards and cut-resistant gloves. All are compulsory, and your kit is checked before the start. Helmet covers and transponders are provided and collected after races.

Which hills can I jump?Ski Jumping

Enter one or two individual competitions, on any of the three hills whatever your age class: HS40, HS70 or HS100. The HS70 team event and Nordic combined come on top.

Why is the oval 333.3 m and not 400 m?Speed Skating

The oval is fitted to the ice field in central Lahti and built to ISU Rule 204. Three laps make 1000 m. Times on this track do not count for records.

What if the weather turns?Speed Skating

Monday 17 January is a reserve day. If a race day has to move, it moves there.

Do coaches and team staff register?Synchronised Skating

Yes. Coaches and team staff register as accompanying persons, so they get the right access at the venue. That registration opens in 2027.

Do I need a PDGA membership?Winter Disc Golf

No. Winter disc golf is open to everyone aged 30 or over. Club membership is recommended, not required.

How cold is the water?Winter Swimming

Close to freezing. The temperature class is set on the day under the IWSA rules. Four saunas and changing rooms are steps from the pool.

How many races can I swim?Winter Swimming

All five if you want: one race a day, plus the relay on Sunday 23 January.

Can I run two trail races?Winter Trail Run

Yes. The 5 km or 10 km and the 21 km are all in one entry, on consecutive days.

What kit do I need on the trail?Winter Trail Run

Shoes with good grip on snow is the most important. Follow the instructions from sports page.

Is Super-G confirmed?Alpine Skiing

Super-G is in the programme. The final approval is pending until the FIS spring meeting at May-June 2027.

What about the daylight?Alpine Skiing

Lapland days are short in mid-January. The race schedule is built around the midday light.

What do I need to bring?Alpine Skiing, Ski Jumping

Race skis and a helmet that meet FIS rules, a back protector for Super-G, and warm layers. January in Lapland is cold.

Can I rent a rifle?Biathlon

No. There are no rental rifles by organiser. Bring your own.

Where is my rifle kept?Biathlon

In your own care. There is no rifle storage at the venue, so your rifle stays with you for the whole stay.

How long are the races?Biathlon

From 4.5 km in the 60+ sprint up to 10 km in the men's 30–59 individual. The full table by class is on the biathlon page. Race courses and final details are published in 2027.

Is there training on the range?Biathlon

Official training on Friday 14 January, zeroing before every race, and a training slot on the free Monday.

Which course do I ski?Cross-Country Skiing

Classes M01–09 and F01–08 ski the blue course on 7.5 km laps (relay 5 km). Classes M10–13 and F09–13 ski the green course, with one climb and flatter loops: 5, 10 or 15 km.

Can my relay team mix nations?Cross-Country Skiing

Yes. Teams from one nation race for the medals. Mixed-nation teams are welcome and are ranked as mixed teams. Relay teams are entered at the race office by Tuesday 18 January.

Can I combine cross-country and biathlon?Biathlon, Cross-Country Skiing

Yes. Biathlon races on 15, 16 and 18 January, cross-country from 17 January. The two programmes are built to combine.

Is there a waxing area?Cross-Country Skiing

Yes. Waxing possibilities are available at the Sports Center. The details come in the venue guide before the Games.

Is there training before the races?Cross-Country Skiing

Free training on the trails on Sunday 16 January, the day before the first race.

What if the field is full?Curling

There are places for 24 Mixed Teams and 12 Mixed Doubles pairs. A team is complete when all its players have registered and paid, and places go to complete teams in the order they are completed. Later teams go on a waiting list and move up if a place opens.

Can we bring an alternate?Curling

Yes, one alternate per team in the Mixed Team event. The alternate registers and pays like every player, and is named at the team captains' meeting.

Can I change my team after registering?Curling

Yes. Change your team code in My Event until entries close on 31 December 2027. Line-up changes are free until 30 November 2027, then 25 € per change. A new player pays their own entry.

What if a player has to cancel?Curling

The same cancellation terms apply in every sport: full refund minus 50 € until 30 June 2027, 50 % from 1 July to 30 November 2027, nothing from 1 December 2027. Each player follows their own refund. A Mixed Team stays in the draw as long as it can field two women and two men.

How many games will we play?Curling

Five round-robin games for every team. Teams in the play-offs play up to four more.

What do we need to bring?Curling

Your shoes, slider, gripper and brooms with World Curling approved heads. Stones, hacks and scoreboards are provided. Warm layers for the stands and a team outfit for the photos.

Is there practice ice?Curling

Yes. 25 minutes of official practice on Sunday 16 January, on the sheet of your team's first game, included in your entry. Extra practice ice is offered later as an add-on.

How does the week fit with the rest of the Games?Curling

Official practice and the first games are on Sunday 16 January. The round robin runs to Thursday 20, play-offs on Friday 21 and medal games on Saturday 22. Arrive by Saturday 15 January. Sunday 23 is the Farewell Party in Lahti.

Can I enter singles and ice dance?Figure Skating

Yes. Singles, ice dance and pairs are all on one figure skating entry, one level per discipline.

What is artistic free skating?Figure Skating

A free programme judged with the focus on interpretation, music and choreography.

Can I also skate synchro?Figure Skating

Yes. Synchro runs 14–17 January, before the singles events. It counts as a separate sport.

When do I know my start time?Figure Skating

The timetable with warm-up groups is published after entries close, in Downloads.

How does the team register?Ice Hockey

The captain registers the team and gets one team code. Every skater registers with the code and pays their own entry.

Is there practice for synchro teams?Synchronised Skating

Yes. Official practice before your event is included in your entry. Practice times come with the timetable. Extra team ice is offered later as an add-on.

Can skaters also do figure skating?Synchronised Skating

Yes. Singles, pairs and dance start on Monday 17 January. It counts as a separate sport.

How do we get between the rinks and Lahti?Ice Hockey

Vierumäki is about 30 km and Heinola about 35 km from Lahti. With your accreditation you travel Lahti–Heinola on local transport at a reduced rate, and a paid shuttle runs Lahti–Vierumäki–Heinola.  Timetables and prices are published in 2027.

Can we store our bags and equipment at the rink?Ice Hockey

Paid team services at Vierumäki, such as equipment storage, are published in 2027.

How long is the ski race in nordic combined?Nordic Combined

By age class: 30–49 8 km, 50–59 6 km, 60–69 4 km, 70+ 2 km or 4 km (you choose in the form).

Which technique do we ski?Nordic Combined

Free technique, on a floodlit loop. Courses are published in 2027.

How is it scored?Ski Jumping

Distance and style points over two jumps, with no wind or gate compensation.

How does the team event work?Ski Jumping

Four jumpers, one from each age group: 30+, 40+, 50+ and 60+. An older jumper may jump in a younger group. Men and women can jump in the same team, and mixed nations are welcome. The HS70 team event is on Sunday 23 January. Enter your team at the race office by Friday 21 January, 18:00.

Can I also do Nordic combined?Ski Jumping

Yes. It is a separate sport on your entry. The Nordic combined jumps are on Friday 21 (60+, HS40) and Saturday 22 (30–59, HS70), and the ski race is on Saturday 22 in the evening. Your first competition round on your hill counts for both.

Is there training?Ski Jumping

Official training on all hills on Thursday 20 January, included in your entry. Hill training on Wednesday 19 January is paid per session at the hill.

Will I race more than once?Short Track

Yes. Every distance runs in rounds, and the all-final system means every skater races a final.

How do the relays work in short track?Short Track

There is one relay: the 3000 m mixed relay on Saturday 22 January. Four skaters, two women and two men, in relay classes 30–39, 40–49, 50–59 and 60+. Up to two skaters may race in a younger class than their own. Teams are named at the race office.

Can I also skate long track speed skating?Short Track

Yes. Long track ends on Monday 17 January. Short track opens the ice the same day and races from Thursday 20 January. It counts as a separate sport on your entry.

Do times count for records?Speed Skating

No. Results on a 333.3 m temporary track are not eligible for records.

Who do I skate against?Speed Skating

Pairs are seeded by time, so you skate against someone of your speed, whatever their age. Medals are awarded by age class.

What should I bring?Speed Skating

Long track skates, racing suit, gloves, and warm layers for waiting outdoors in January.

What do I wear?Winter Swimming

Swimsuit, cap and goggles, per the IWSA rules. Warm clothes and slippers for the walk to the sauna.

Is there a 200 m?Winter Swimming

No. The 200 m and longer distances are not part of the 2028 programme.

Where do I warm up?Winter Swimming

Four saunas and four changing rooms are on the shore, steps from the pool.

How does the relay work?Winter Swimming

Mixed Relay, four swimmers, breaststroke and freestyle legs. Both gender represented per the IWSA rules.

What is the surface?Winter Trail Run

Snow-covered forest trails. Conditions change with the weather, so shoes with good traction help.

Is there a cut-off?Winter Trail Run

Yes, on the 21 km, to keep the race inside the January daylight. Times are in the regulations.

Can I add another sport?Winter Trail Run

Yes, up to three sports on one entry. The trail run finishes on 16 January, so most of the programme is still ahead.

What happens if my disc disappears in the snow?Winter Disc Golf

The winter adaptations to the PDGA rules cover lost discs and other snow situations. They are presented at the briefing before each round. Bring discs in bright colours.

Who runs the hockey tournament?Ice Hockey

Vierumäki leads the tournament on its own two rinks and at the Heinola ice hall, in co-operation with the organising committee, which handles registration, results, accreditation and medals. A Team Captains' Meeting is held on the arrival day before each wave, at the team's first venue.

Which sports are included?
Alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, curling, figure skating, synchronised skating, ice hockey, Nordic combined, ski jumping, short track, speed skating, winter swimming, winter trail run and winter disc golf. See the sports and the programme.
Travel & stay

Getting to Finland, between the host cities, where to stay and the weather.

26 questions
How do I get to Lahti by train?

Fly to Helsinki Airport and take the train, about one hour with a change at Tikkurila.

How do I get to Levi?Alpine Skiing

Fly from Helsinki to Kittilä, about 1 h 20. Levi is 15 km from the airport. Hotels and airport transfers will be offered in the shop from early 2027.

How do I get to Heinola and Vierumäki?

Both are about 30 minutes from Lahti. Games shuttles run there on competition days, and local buses use your transit card.

Do I need a car?

No, not necessarily. In Lahti the hotels, the station and most venues are close. With your accreditation you get reduced local transport fares, and paid shuttles run to Pajulahti, Vierumäki, Heinola and Kippasuo. Details in 2027.

Where should I stay?
The easiest answer: close to your sport. Official accommodation in Lahti, Heinola, Pajulahti, Vierumäki and Levi will be offered in the accommodation page.
Can I do Lahti and Levi on the same trip?

Yes. Alpine runs in Levi in the first days, most Lahti sports later in the week. One train to the airport, one flight to Kittilä, and both stays in one basket.

Do I need a visa?

Finland is in the Schengen area. Check early whether you need a visa. If you need an invitation letter, say so in My Event under My profile after you register.

What is the weather like in January?

Cold and mostly dry. Expect −5 to −15 °C, colder on clear mornings, and about seven hours of daylight in Lahti. Lapland days are shorter. Pack for real winter and warm arenas.

When should I arrive?

At least one day before your first race, to collect your accreditation and do the official training. The Opening Ceremony is on Friday 14 January.

Can I do Levi and Lahti in the same trip?

Yes. Alpine runs 14–19 January, most Lahti sports from 15 January onwards. Fly Kittilä to Helsinki, then one hour by train to Lahti. The Marketplace books both stays in one basket.

Is there a Games transfer from the airport?

Yes, timed to arrivals on 13 and 14 January and departures on 18 and 19 January. Book it in the Levi marketplace. Regular airport shuttles run on other days.

Can I do Lahti and Levi in the same trip?

Yes. Alpine runs 14–18 January in Levi, most Lahti sports from 15 January onwards. One hour by train to the airport, one flight to Kittilä. The Marketplace books both stays in one basket.

Can my companion come to the venues?

Yes. Spectator areas at the stadium, the hills and the arenas are free. The Opening Ceremony and the Farewell Party are free for accompanying persons too. A companion accreditation gives access to the Masters Hub evenings.

How do I get to Heinola?

Fly to Helsinki Airport and take the train to Lahti, about one hour. From Lahti it is 35 km by local transport at a reduced rate with your accreditation, or by the paid shuttle. There is no railway station in Heinola.

Should my team stay in Heinola or Vierumäki?

Either works. Vierumäki puts you next to the group-game rinks with hotels and restaurants on site. Heinola puts you next to the final, the river and the town. Shuttles connect both on game days. Both are in the marketplace.

Can I do Heinola and Lahti in the same trip?

Yes, most people do. Each hockey wave is three days. Before or after, Lahti is thirty minutes away with eleven sports and the Masters Hub every evening. One accreditation covers both.

Can my companion come to the games?

Yes. Spectator stands at the Heinola ice hall and rink side at Vierumäki are free. The disc golf course is open to walk. Accompanying persons get the Opening Ceremony in Lahti free as well.

How do I get to Pajulahti?

Fly to Helsinki Airport and take the train to Lahti, about one hour. Pajulahti is 20 km from Lahti, about 20 minutes, and a paid shuttle runs between Lahti and Pajulahti. Local trains on the Lahti–Kouvola line stop at Villähde, five kilometres away.

Do I need a car on campus?

No. Hotel, ice hall, Lake Pool, halls and restaurants are within a five-minute walk. Games shuttles run to the Lahti Games Centre every day and to Heinola on request. Parking is free if you do bring one.

Can I stay at Pajulahti if I compete in Lahti?

Yes. Pajulahti is one of the main accommodation hubs for the Games. Shuttles to the Lahti venues take about 25 minutes, and the lake, the sauna and the Recovery Center are what many masters from other sports come for.

Where should my team stay?

Hotel rooms for comfort and the lake view, sport standard rooms for a team on one corridor, villas for a group under one roof. All are in the marketplace with Games cancellation terms and breakfast.

Can my companion use the Lake Pool and the Recovery Center?

Yes. Hotel guests have the Lake Pool and saunas included outside race hours; day passes cover everyone else, Recovery Center included. Spectator areas at the ice hall and on the pool bank are free.

How do I get to Vierumäki?

Vierumäki is about 30 km and 30 minutes from Lahti, Heinola about 35 km and 35 minutes. With your accreditation you travel Lahti–Heinola on local transport at a reduced rate, and a paid shuttle runs Lahti–Vierumäki–Heinola. Timetables and prices are published in 2027.

Can I stay at Vierumäki if I compete in Lahti?

Yes. Vierumäki is one of the main accommodation hubs for the Games. Shuttles to the Lahti venues take about 25 minutes, and the resort week, spa and trails included, is what many masters from other sports come for.

Can my companion use the spa and the trails?

Yes. Hotel guests have the pool and spa included; day passes cover everyone else. Trails, lakes and the frisbee golf course are open to all. Rink-side spectator areas are free.

Where can I read more about the host cities?
Every venue, city and travel distance is on the host cities page. The cities’ own travel sites: Visit Lahti, Visit Heinola and Visit Levi.
At the Games

Accreditation, the programme, ceremonies, results and race-day practicalities.

22 questions
Can I give feedback or ideas?

Yes, please do. These are your Games, and many good ideas come from masters who have raced at earlier Games. Email [email protected]. We read every message.

How do I get the latest news?

All updates are published on this site in the news section. When you register, the news also comes to your email.

I found a mistake on the site. What should I do?

Tell us. We are developing the Games and this site all the time, and some details may be out of date or wrong for a while. Email [email protected] with the page and what is wrong. We fix it and move on. If this site and a sport invitation say different things, the invitation counts.

Who organises the Winter World Masters Games?

Salppuri Oy in Lahti is the organising committee. The Games belong to World Masters Sports (WMS). Each sport is run together with local clubs and national federations, named on every sport page.

 

Why is some information still missing?

The Games are built step by step. Some details, like start times, transport timetables and shop services, are published in 2027. We add them to this site as soon as they are decided.

Where do I collect my accreditation?

At the Games Centre in Lahti or Levi (Alpine Skiers) before your first competition day. Opening times are published in 2027. One accreditation covers every host city and every sport you enter. Service points at the other venues are listed in the arrival guide.

When is my sport?

Every sport has its days and times on its own page and in the programme. Exact start times come after entries close.

See the programme

What happens in the evenings?

The Opening Ceremony on Friday 14 January, the Winner's Celebration at the Masters Hub every evening, and the Farewell Party on Sunday 23 January.

Where can I see the results?

Live on the sports page and on each sport page from the first race day, by age class. Medal ceremonies are in your sport's own programme.

Can I store my equipment at the venue?

Equipment storage, ski service and waxing will be offered in the shop from early 2027. Each venue guide lists what is on site. Biathlon rifles stay in your own care.

What languages are spoken?

English and Finnish everywhere at the Games. Many volunteers speak other languages too.

Who do I ask on site?

The info desk at the Games Centre in Lahti, the service point at your venue, or any volunteer in a Games jacket.

Is there an Opening Ceremony in Levi?

The Opening Ceremony is in Lahti on 14 January at 19:00. Levi holds its own welcome reception the same evening, more details to follow. The Winner's Celebration and medal ceremonies for alpine take place in Levi.

Where can I read more about Levi?
Where can I read more about Lahti?
Where are the medal ceremonies?

Hockey medals on the ice in Heinola after each final, on 17, 20 and 23 January. Disc golf medals at Kippasuo after the singles on 22 January. The nightly Winner's Celebration in Lahti shows both.

Where can I read more about Heinola?
Where can I read more about Pajulahti?
Where can I read more about Vierumäki?
What are the Winter World Masters Games?

The world’s biggest winter multi-sport event for masters and active movers aged 30 and over. Open to all levels, from first-timers to former pros. Sport for all, sport for life.

When and where do the Games take place?

14–23 January 2028 in Finland. Lahti is the Games centre. Ice hockey is played in Vierumäki and Heinola, winter disc golf in Heinola, curling and winter swimming at Pajulahti in Lahti, and alpine skiing in Levi in Lapland.

What is World Masters Sports?

World Masters Sports (WMS) is the rights holder of the World Masters Games and the representative body of masters sport worldwide. Founded in 1985 and recognised by the International Olympic Committee.

Companions & extras

Bringing your people, spectators, add-ons, the shop and volunteering.

7 questions
Can friends and family come?

Yes, bring your people. Spectator areas at the venues are free, and the Opening Ceremony and the Farewell Party are free for companions

Does my companion need an accreditation?

No, but many take one. A companion accreditation gives access to dedicated spaces at venues, the Masters Hub and the evening programme. Companion registration opens in 2027.

What can my companion do while I race?

Watch, then explore: sauna and lake, the harbour and Sibelius Hall in Lahti, the spa in Heinola, the fells in Levi. Ideas are on each host city page.

Host cities

Can I buy race photos?

Yes. Photo packages will be offered as an add-on in the shop from early 2027. You get your own photos after the Games.

When does the Official Store open?

At latest, In early 2027. Register now and your shop account is ready when the store opens.

Can I volunteer as well as compete?

Yes. Volunteer on the days you are not racing. Sign up on the volunteer page.

Become a volunteer

I still have a question.

Email us at [email protected]. We answer in English or Finnish.

Ready?

Next step: your sport.

Registration Get in first Pre-registration has closed. Registration opens for everyone on 9 November 2026. Registration starts 9 Nov→ Sports 14 sports Dates, venues and rules for every sport. All sports→ Programme Ten days Every race and every evening, day by day. Programme→