2026 Iditarod Expedition musher Thomas Wærner (bib #13) of Torpa, Norway, has chosen to conclude his Iditarod Expedition at the Unalakleet checkpoint after several dogs on the team showed symptoms of kennel cough. After consulting with their veterinarians, Wærner and the team are prioritizing the well-being of his dog team as the guiding factor in his decision.
The inaugural Expedition Mushing class allows participants to travel the historic Iditarod Trail and experience the journey to Nome while embracing the spirit of exploration that defines this inaugural program. Throughout the expedition, participants are expected to maintain the highest standards of dog care and make decisions that put the needs of their teams first.
Wærner’s decision reflects that commitment, choosing to end his expedition out of care and respect for the dogs that carried him across hundreds of miles of the Iditarod Trail.
Meanwhile, Wærners Expedition partner, Kjell Inge Røkke continues his journey toward Nome alongside his support team, carrying forward the spirit of exploration that defines this inaugural Iditarod Expedition.
The Iditarod Trail Committee commends Waerner for his commitment to putting the well-being of his dogs first and thanks him for the spirit in which he embraced this expedition. We hope to see him back on the Iditarod Trail in the future.
Photo: Siri Raitto | siriraitto.com
