SCHLADMING – Swiss skier Loic Meillard claimed victory in the nighttime giant slalom World Cup event in Schladming.
He triumphed with a significant lead of 73 hundredths of a second over Brazilian representative Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, while young Frenchman Alban Elezi Cannaferina secured his first career podium finish (+0.90).
Slovak representative Andreas Žampa achieved his best result of the season, finishing 24th (+5.41). His brother Adam did not finish the first round.
Pinheiro Braathen led after the first run by 6 hundredths of a second ahead of Meillard. However, the Swiss skier clearly surpassed his rival in the second run, celebrating his ninth World Cup victory, and sixth in the most technically demanding alpine discipline.
“I’m happy, these conditions suit me. I ski best on icy tracks,” Meillard told ORF 2 after his second triumph of the season. He won the “giant” in Schladming for the second time, having also triumphed at this venue three years ago.
The best second run was delivered by 22-year-old Elezi Cannaferina, who climbed from eighth position after the first run to the podium. Overall World Cup leader and discipline standings leader Marco Odermatt of Switzerland made mistakes in both runs on the Planai slope and finished fourth, 1.26 seconds behind the winner.
Andreas Žampa’s Stellar Performance
Andreas Žampa demonstrated a fluid run in the first round, starting with bib number 47, accurately timing his turns and navigating a critical section in the lower part of the slope with a slight hesitation. He narrowly qualified for the second round, finishing 29th (+2.96), alongside Alexis Pinturault who achieved the same time.
Starting second in the second run, Andreas Žampa capitalized on the pristine track. He skied more aggressively than the French veteran, accelerating further down the slope and gaining a 22-hundredth-of-a-second lead. His time was eventually surpassed by Jonas Stockinger of Germany, who was 26th after the first run.
Ultimately, the Slovak representative improved his position by five places compared to the first run, earning seven points for his 24th place finish. This adds to the three points he secured at the opening event in Sölden (28th). He is well-prepared for the 2026 Winter Olympics, where he will be the sole male Slovak representative in alpine skiing.
His brother Adam Žampa, starting with bib number 61, failed to finish the first run after slipping on his inside ski around the midpoint of the course. He managed to stay within the gate, but lost control and did not complete his run.
Results of the Giant Slalom World Cup in Schladming:
1. Loic Meillard (SUI) 2:14.38 min., 2. Lucas Pinheiro Braathen (BRA) +0.73 sec, 3. Alban Elezi Cannaferina (FRA) +0.90, 4. Marco Odermatt (SUI) +1.26, 5. Timon Haugan (NOR) +1.63, 6. Sam Maes (BEL) +1.85, 7. Atle Lie McGrath (NOR) +1.86, 8. Marco Schwarz (AUT) +1.89, 9. Giovanni Borsotti (ITA) +2.01, 10. Anton Grammel (GER) +2.04, …, 24. Andreas ŽAMPA +5.41, Adam ŽAMPA (SVK) did not finish 1st run
Overall standings (after 26 of 38 competitions):
1. Odermatt 1335 pts, 2. Pinheiro Braathen 748, 3. Meillard 683, 4. McGrath 614, 5. Haugan 569, 6. Henrik Kristoffersen (NOR) 555, …, 130. Andreas ŽAMPA 10
Giant slalom standings (7 of 9):
1. Odermatt 450 pts, 2. Pinheiro Braathen 347, 3. Meillard 326, 4. Stefan Brennsteiner (AUT) 321, 5. Schwarz 284, 6. Kristoffersen 282, …, 42. Andreas ŽAMPA 10
Photo gallery for the article
Number of photos: 17
- Author: © Zoznam/
- VIDEO: YouTube/FIS Alpine
- Source: TASR
The Future of Alpine Skiing: Trends to Watch
Andreas Žampa’s consistent improvement and strong showing in Schladming highlight a broader trend in alpine skiing: the increasing competitiveness outside of the traditional powerhouses. While nations like Switzerland, Austria, and Norway have historically dominated, athletes from Brazil, France, and Slovakia are making significant strides. This shift is fueled by several factors, including increased access to training facilities, improved coaching methodologies, and a growing global interest in the sport.
Technological Advancements in Skiing Equipment
The evolution of ski technology is a constant driver of performance. We’re seeing a move towards more intelligent skis, incorporating sensors and data analytics to optimize performance. Companies like Head, Salomon, and Atomic are investing heavily in research and development, focusing on materials science and aerodynamic design. Ski.com details some of these advancements, including the use of graphene and carbon fiber to create lighter, stronger skis. This allows skiers to maintain higher speeds and execute more precise turns.
Pro Tip: Regularly check the base of your skis for damage and ensure they are properly waxed to maximize glide and performance. A well-maintained ski can significantly improve your time on the slopes.
The Rise of Data Analytics and Personalized Training
Data analytics is no longer limited to professional athletes. Wearable technology, such as smart goggles and sensors embedded in ski boots, are providing skiers with real-time feedback on their technique. Apps like Trace Ski (https://www.traceski.com/) analyze metrics like turn radius, speed, and G-force, allowing skiers to identify areas for improvement. This personalized approach to training is becoming increasingly popular, enabling athletes of all levels to optimize their performance.
Climate Change and its Impact on Ski Resorts
Perhaps the most significant challenge facing alpine skiing is climate change. Rising temperatures are leading to shorter, less predictable snow seasons, forcing ski resorts to invest in snowmaking technology and explore alternative revenue streams. A report by the Skiinfo.com highlights the increasing reliance on artificial snow and the potential for significant economic disruption in the ski industry. Resorts are also diversifying their offerings, focusing on year-round activities like mountain biking and hiking to mitigate the impact of shorter ski seasons.
Did you know? Some resorts are experimenting with snow farming – collecting and storing snow during the winter months to use later in the season when natural snowfall is limited.
The Growing Popularity of Freestyle Skiing and Ski Cross
While traditional alpine disciplines like slalom and giant slalom remain popular, freestyle skiing and ski cross are experiencing rapid growth. These disciplines appeal to a younger audience and offer a more dynamic and visually exciting spectacle. The inclusion of these events in the Winter Olympics has further boosted their popularity. The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) is actively promoting these disciplines to attract new participants and fans.
FAQ
- What is the fastest speed reached in alpine skiing? The current world record is 255.55 km/h (158.8 mph), set by Ivan Origone in 2016.
- How important is ski waxing? Extremely important. Proper waxing reduces friction and improves glide, potentially shaving seconds off your time.
- What are the key skills for giant slalom? Strong leg strength, precise edge control, and the ability to maintain a consistent rhythm are crucial.
- Is climate change a major threat to alpine skiing? Yes, it is. Shorter snow seasons and unpredictable weather patterns pose a significant challenge to the industry.
What are your thoughts on the future of alpine skiing? Share your opinions in the comments below! Don’t forget to explore our other articles on winter sports for more in-depth analysis and expert insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and exclusive content.