“The biggest win of my career,” Aukland said after the race.

Aukland completed the 90 kilometre course from Sälen to Mora in Dalarna in a time of 3 hours and 50 seconds.

The first woman to cross the line was Laila Kveli, also from Norway, who came in at 4 hours and 22 minutes.

The 89th Vasaloppet was 37-year-old Jörgen Aukland second win, having previously claimed the title in 2008.

He dominated the race back in 2008, but this time around he was left sweating over whether his rivals Daniel Tynell and 2012 champion Jörgen Brink would catch him on the run into Mora.

“I knew that Jörgen Brink and Daniel Tynell have a very strong sprint finish and I am not not exactly known as a sprinter. So it feels extra special to win,” he said.

Completing the medal places was Aukland’s brother Anders. Jörgen Brink crossed the line in fourth place.

The Vasaloppet is one of the highlights of the Swedish sporting calender and has grown into a massive public and television event. Last year’s race was noteable for the participation of Pippa Middleton, the sister of the Duchess of Cambridge.

The race has royal roots having been inspired by a now-mythical journey by Sweden’s future king Gustav Vasa, who was locked in fierce struggle against invading Danes in 1521.