Alexandersson, a five-time world champion who is looking for a fourth consecutive overall World Cup crown, has been boosted as her nearest challenger Maja Alm will not compete at the event.

The Dane misses out through injury to give 24-year-old Alexandersson the chance to extend her advantage.

She will still face stern competition from Russian Natalia Gemperle, who is third in the standings, and Swedish compatriot Helena Bergman who sits fourth. 

In men's competition, multiple world champion Hubmann is looking for a seventh overall World Cup title.

He will be tested by nearest challenger Martin Regborn of Sweden and fellow Swiss Matthias Kyburz, the defending overall champion who sits third.

More than 250 athletes from 27 countries are due to compete in Cēsis in all.

The action will begin tomorrow with middle distance races, before relays on Saturday (August 26).

Sprint will take centre stage on August 27, with qualification in the morning before the finals in the afternoon.  

In the relay standings Sweden have a strong overall lead, in front of Switzerland and Norway.

World Cup legs have already been held in Finland and Estonia this season.