Zebastian Modin Secures Bronze in Classic Sprint at Val di Fiemme Paralympics

Val di Fiemme, Italy – Swedish cross-country skier Zebastian Modin added to his Paralympic medal count, winning bronze in the classic sprint event at the 2026 Paralympic Games in Val di Fiemme, Italy. This marks Modin’s ninth Paralympic medal, continuing a remarkable streak for the 31-year-old athlete.

A Hard-Fought Battle for Bronze

Competing in the visually impaired class, Modin began the final with a 20-second head start over his competitors, who all have some degree of vision. Despite the advantage, he faced a strong challenge from American Jake Adicoff, who ultimately claimed gold, and Finn Inkki Inola, who secured silver. Modin finished 6.2 seconds behind Adicoff.

“They came so damn fast. I didn’t have a hat, like. They were better,” Modin told SVT after the race, acknowledging the speed of his competitors. He secured the bronze medal alongside his Finnish guide, Emil Talsi.

Paralympic Career Highlights

Zebastian Modin is competing in his fifth Paralympic Games. Prior to this event, he had accumulated four silver medals (sprint and mixed relay in 2014, sprint in 2018, 12.5 km in 2022) and five bronze medals (sprint in 2010, 20 km in 2014, sprint and 20 km in 2022, and sprint in 2026).

Modin has also achieved significant success on the World Cup circuit, earning eleven medals, including five gold medals. He is a seven-time winner of the overall World Cup in long distance.

Background

Born on June 20, 1994, in Frösö parish, Sweden, Modin skis for Östersunds SK. He was born with glaucoma and lost all vision in his left eye following an operation at age six.

“When I obtain home tonight I’ll probably be satisfied. The medal is the important thing,” Modin stated.

Recent Performance

While a formidable cross-country skier, Modin’s biathlon performance has presented challenges. His shooting efficiency has been around 50% in recent years, impacting his ability to contend for podium finishes in biathlon events. His best result in the 2024/25 season was seventh place in the sprint at the Paralympic trials in Val di Fiemme.