A key step marked by cooperation

The return of the men and the return to the Nationale piste sparked significant enthusiasm among the event partners. Adjustments are needed, and everyone must find their footing on this new terrain. "We need to acclimatize to this 'new' course on all levels. Not only in terms of the sporting layout but also all the logistics from an organizational perspective. For a smooth execution, it is crucial that everyone working on the course becomes familiar with it," explains Didier Défago, General Director of the Crans-Montana 2027 Association.

Representatives from FIS, Swiss-Ski, the organizing committee, the ski lift operators, RTS (which produces the TV signal for the race), and Longines (responsible for timing) walked the course from top to bottom and visited key locations, before gathering at the finish stadium for a global debrief.

Markus Waldner, head of the men's events at FIS, praised the investments made this summer in the course (snowmaking, safety, cabling) and the excellent collaboration with the organizing committee. He confirmed that everything is on track to welcome the male elite of alpine skiing this winter, and the essential "inspection agreement" was signed immediately afterward.

So, mark your calendars for 12th and 13th February 2025, for two FIS European Cup downhill races, and 22nd and 23rd February for a super-G and a men's downhill race of the Audi FIS Ski World Cup in Crans-Montana.