Swiss athletes recreate the Magic of the 1987 World Championships

There was a distinct Crans-Montana 1987 atmosphere in the air. Not just because the downhill race started from the summit of Bella Lui for the first time since those historic World Championships, but above all, because of the incredible performance of the Swiss skiers. Their unprecedented 1-2-3 finish was a reminder of the legendary Swiss quadruple podium sweep that took place on this very slope 39 years ago. "This is really special," said Franjo von Allmen, who edged out his teammates Marco Odermatt and Alexis Monney.

To top it all off, the double world champion from Bern claimed his first-ever World Cup downhill victory. "This was really important for me, for my confidence, to confirm my form after the World Championships," said Franjo von Allmen, his face lit up with a huge smile as he took in the roaring crowd chanting his name. "This atmosphere is just crazy. I've been through every possible emotion these past few weeks—first in Saalbach, then back home in Boltigen, and now here in Crans-Montana. I’m going to need some time to take it all in."

A Triple Podium Was the Goal

The thousands of fans packed into the Barzettes stadium were treated to a spectacular show by the Swiss athletes. "This triple podium was something we had in mind since last season," admitted Marco Odermatt. "We already did it in super-G (at the Saalbach finals) and at the World Championships in the team combined event, but pulling it off in a downhill, especially here in Crans-Montana, is just amazing. The atmosphere was incredible."

The overall World Cup leader praised the talent and maturity of his two young teammates, who proudly stood beside him on the podium. "It’s never easy to refocus after a World Championship event. Franjo and Alexis found themselves in this situation for the first time in their careers. They managed to relax, reset, and deliver—I have to give them a lot of credit."

Success Thanks to the Coaches

For Odermatt, the secret to the Swiss team’s success on the Nationale slope lies in the work of their coaches. "We have to thank our coaches, who worked tirelessly to analyze the best lines to take on this downhill." This was especially important since the glider-friendly course didn’t necessarily play to his technical strengths. "I was able to ski the way I wanted, pushing the limits more than I did in training," the Nidwalden skier added.

The same was true for Alexis Monney, who claimed his third podium finish of the season, despite setting more modest expectations. "When I arrived here, my goal was to finish in the top 15 on this course. Ending up on the podium is just amazing—I’m really happy, and this weekend is already a success."

With two years to go until the Crans-Montana World Championships, Swiss speed specialists have already stamped their authority on the Nationale slope. And they’ll have another chance to prove their dominance in Sunday’s super-G.