Following two hours of deliberations, organizers of the event and the International Ski Federation (FIS) made the joint decision to call off the event. The deciding factor in the cancellation were poor and worsening snow conditions in Tehvandi.

According to project leader Ago Markvardt, the call was made with a heavy heart, but they were left with no other choice. "As the primary concern was the trail, where rain has done a lot of damage over the past week, we discussed various alternatives, but unfortunately getting even a shorter trail ready in time for the race is in all likelihood mission impossible," he said. "This is a big risk that we cannot accept as organizers."

Markvardt added that they took into consideration as many different weather forecasts as possible, and not one of them promised cold enough temperatures for snowmaking next week. "Conditions were satisfactory before Christmas, but rain, wind and warm weather did a devastating number in just two days," he said.

As of Dec. 22, teams from 13 different countries had registered for the event, including the top-ranking Norway, Germany and Japan. Teams were informed of the cancellation as soon as possible.