Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2025: elite favorites preview
The Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2025 favorites are already shaping the narrative of one of Europe’s most prestigious ultramarathons. Set in the stunning Dolomites, this race attracts top-tier talent from around the world, eager to conquer its 120 km course and 5,800 meters of vertical gain. This preview focuses on verified elite contenders—athletes with a proven track record and recent performances that confirm their spot on this list.
The race at a glance
Held annually in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the Lavaredo Ultra Trail combines alpine beauty with brutal difficulty. Over the past decade, it has earned its reputation as a key fixture on the international trail running calendar. Not only does it serve as a high-stakes race on its own, but it also plays a strategic role for many athletes preparing for UTMB later in the season. Consequently, every edition sees a blend of returning legends, tactical racers, and breakout stars.
Men’s field: verified contenders for the crown
Hannes Namberger – Lavaredo’s reigning force
Hannes Namberger remains the top name among the Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2025 favorites. After winning Lavaredo in 2021 and 2022, he returned to dominate the 2024 edition once more. Namberger’s blend of efficient climbing, smart pacing, and mental resilience makes him a model of consistency on this course. His comfort on technical descents and long alpine climbs makes him the man to beat.
Tom Evans – the tactician with a Lavaredo podium
British ultrarunner Tom Evans, winner of Western States 100 in 2023, delivered another masterclass in pacing and control by placing second behind Namberger at the 2024 Lavaredo Ultra Trail. Evans has shown he can adapt to both the heat of California and the steep gradients of the Dolomites. With this experience under his belt, he enters 2025 as a legitimate challenger for the win.
Women’s field: powerful returns and proven ability
Katie Schide – queen of consistency
Katie Schide, the 2022 UTMB champion, broke records again in 2024 by completing UTMB in 22:09:31—an all-time best. Although she hasn’t confirmed her 2025 Lavaredo participation, her profile makes her a prime candidate. Should she compete, she’ll bring the perfect combination of endurance, composure, and descending technique that defines success at Lavaredo.
Blandine L’Hirondel – back with mountain momentum
Blandine L’Hirondel is another elite presence in the women’s field. After finishing fifth at UTMB 2024 and winning Trail du Ventoux in early 2025, she’s clearly in top shape. Her high-altitude capacity and ability to push the pace early set her apart. If Lavaredo is on her schedule, she’ll not only contend—she might dominate.
Abby Hall – Lavaredo podium experience
Abby Hall claimed second place at Lavaredo in 2022 and has remained a solid performer on the UTMB circuit. With a background in high-elevation trail races and a knack for navigating European terrain, she represents a steady podium threat. Hall’s patience and consistency make her one of the most underestimated names in the Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2025 favorites group.
Debunking the hype: runners not confirmed or verified
While speculation can fuel excitement, it’s equally important to separate fact from fiction. Several names often mentioned in 2025 previews do not yet have confirmed Lavaredo credentials or lack recent performances to justify elite status.
- Aurélien Dunand-Pallaz, though a world-class ultrarunner, did not win the 2024 TDS (that honor went to Thibault Marquet) and has not recently competed at Lavaredo.
- Ruy Ueda is an outstanding mountain athlete, particularly in Skyrunning, but has yet to prove himself at longer ultramarathon distances like Lavaredo.
- Jin Cao, while a talented Chinese runner, does not have current elite results or Lavaredo experience to suggest he’ll be a top contender in 2025.
Factors to watch in 2025
Technical terrain and weather
The course’s defining segments—like the climb to Rifugio Auronzo or the Tre Cime di Lavaredo crossing—require precise footwork and efficient energy use. Add to that the unpredictable alpine weather, and the Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2025 favorites will need to prepare for scenarios ranging from heat waves to sleet and snow.
Race strategy and UTMB planning
For many elite runners, Lavaredo serves as either a confidence-building standalone race or a stepping stone toward UTMB. Those aiming to peak in Chamonix may adopt a conservative approach, while others will race Lavaredo as their main target of the season. This dynamic often impacts pacing, risk-taking, and ultimately, finishing positions.
Course updates and logistics
There are no major route changes confirmed for 2025, but ongoing efforts to smooth trail congestion in the first 20 km may slightly alter the rhythm of the race. This could advantage fast starters or create new bottlenecks depending on how the organizers manage early aid stations and wave starts.
Predictions: podium outlook
Men’s field
- Hannes Namberger – Proven dominance and three-time champion.
- Tom Evans – Tactical racer with Lavaredo podium experience.
- Wildcard – Watch for a young breakout European like Andreas Reiterer or an unexpected American debut.
Women’s field
- Katie Schide – If she races, she’s the favorite based on form and consistency.
- Blandine L’Hirondel – Aggressive climber, strong early-season form.
- Abby Hall – Prior Lavaredo success and experienced pacing.
Final reflections
The Lavaredo Ultra Trail 2025 favorites are not just names on a list—they represent a blend of mountain mastery, physical endurance, and strategic brilliance. By relying on verified race performances and official standings, we can better appreciate the depth of this year’s field and anticipate a spectacular showdown in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Whether you’re planning to spectate, race, or simply follow the action, keep this list close. It’s shaping up to be one of the most thrilling editions in the event’s storied history.
