Andorran Skier Gina del Rio Targets World Cup Top 30 and U23 Jersey

Andorran cross-country skier Gina del Rio is preparing for a full World Cup campaign, focusing on consistency in the top 30 of the overall standings while targeting the under-23 leader's jersey in her final eligible season.

The 23-year-old, who trained recently in Font-Romeu, France, has shifted to a recovery period before the season begins. She emphasised a measured approach to her ambitions, prioritising steady performances across distance and sprint events.

"My goal is still to establish myself in the World Cup top 30," del Rio said. "Last year we were on the right track, and I'm pleased with my progress in both sprint and distance." She views the U23 classification as a key focus. "It's obviously still quite important to me, as it's my last year and last chance to contend for a podium—and why not aim to do a bit better than last year?"

Del Rio, who donned the green U23 jersey last season, prefers to assess races individually rather than fixate on targets. "I haven't thought much about specific goals yet—in fact, I try not to," she noted. "I'd like to compete well and perform at a solid level."

Her schedule centres on maximum World Cup participation to build polivalency ahead of the World Championships in Falun, Sweden. "We'll see how I feel, but my plan is to tackle the full circuit or as many races as possible, staying versatile in distance and sprint, then focus on the Worlds and the U23 ranking," she said. "It all ties together—if you do well in the World Cup, you're already in the fight for the green jersey."