World Cup Alpine Skiing 2024/2025 in Sölden: Winners, Results, and Analysis

The Importance of the Sölden World Cup Stage

The season-opening World Cup stage in Sölden has long been one of the most critical events in alpine skiing. Competitions on the Rettenbach Glacier set the tone for the entire upcoming season, with victory here not only granting the first points in the overall standings but also providing athletes a significant confidence boost after a year of rigorous preparation.

Racing Conditions on the Rettenbach Course

The course in Sölden is known for its sharp drops, steep sections, and unpredictable weather, demanding top-tier technique and tactics from skiers. This season, the weather played a pivotal role: a cold morning transitioned into a sunny day, impacting the track conditions. Snow began to melt on the final sections, reducing ski grip and adding intensity to the battle for victory, requiring precise maneuvers from the athletes at every turn.

Women’s Stage Recap: Results and Tactics

On October 26, the women’s giant slalom kicked off the season. Italian skier Federica Brignone claimed victory, finishing with an overall time of 2:16.05. She executed a masterful second run, capitalizing on a mistake by Mikaela Shiffrin, who led after the first run but slipped to fifth after a significant error on the lower course.

Top 3 Women’s Results:

• Federica Brignone (Italy) – 2:16.05
• Alice Robinson (New Zealand) – +0.17
• Julia Scheib (Austria) – +1.08

Alice Robinson also showed impressive time on the first part of the course but could not maintain her speed in the final stretch, finishing just 0.17 seconds behind Brignone. Austria’s Julia Scheib surprised by climbing from 14th to third, marking her first World Cup podium finish.

Men’s Stage Recap: Results and Tactics

The following day, October 27, the men’s giant slalom saw Norway’s team dominate: Alexander Steen Olsen confidently took first with a total time of 2:09.50, followed closely by his compatriots Henrik Kristoffersen and Atle Lie McGrath in second and third, respectively. This podium sweep was historic for Norway, marking the first full Norwegian podium finish at the Sölden World Cup stage.

Top 3 Men’s Results:

• Alexander Steen Olsen (Norway) – 2:09.50
• Henrik Kristoffersen (Norway) – +0.65
• Atle Lie McGrath (Norway) – +0.66

This stage proved disappointing for Swiss skier Marco Odermatt, one of the race favorites, who was forced out after a fall during his first run. This unexpected setback gave Norwegian skiers a crucial advantage, allowing them to claim all three podium spots.

Marcel Hirscher’s Return

Austrian skiing legend Marcel Hirscher returned to competition after a long hiatus, finishing in 23rd place. Hirscher, who retired in 2019 after eight consecutive World Cup overall wins, viewed this result as experimental and a way to test the waters. He expressed that his return was not just about testing his skills but also experiencing the competitive atmosphere after a long absence. Though his final ranking fell short of his past achievements, Hirscher’s return was a significant moment for fans of alpine skiing.

Lucas Braathen’s New Flag and Dance on the Finish Line

Lucas Braathen, now representing Brazil after his transfer from the Norwegian team, made an unexpected splash in the giant slalom, finishing fourth. Braathen clocked the fastest second run, reducing his gap with the leaders and ending just 0.90 seconds behind Alexander Steen Olsen. Though slightly short of the podium, Braathen demonstrated remarkable technique and aggressive line choices, much to the delight of fans, especially with his new affiliation with the Brazilian team, marking a strong start to his season.

Analysis of Winner Tactics and Performances

Federica Brignone’s Tactics on the Women’s Stage

Brignone performed brilliantly, managing tricky turns and accelerating in the lower part of the course, where many competitors lost valuable seconds. Her approach was precise and technical, enabling her to avoid mistakes and secure an advantage. Her skill in handling elevation changes and managing energy throughout the run proved essential to her victory.

Alexander Steen Olsen’s Technical Approach on the Men’s Stage

Olsen opted for an aggressive strategy, maintaining high speed on each course section. His technical mastery and smooth turns were instrumental, particularly on sections where the snow began to soften. Olsen also showed impressive balance on steep sections, allowing him to minimize speed loss and secure his lead.

Conclusion and Season Forecast

The Sölden stage provided an exhilarating season opener, indicating that the World Cup battle will be intense and unpredictable. Federica Brignone’s win and Alexander Steen Olsen’s Norwegian triumph set high standards, and they are expected to remain among the frontrunners in upcoming stages. Competitors like Marco Odermatt and Mikaela Shiffrin, motivated by early setbacks, are likely to make strong comebacks.

Brignone’s victory and Norway’s united effort displayed their strong preparation and adaptability to the Rettenbach course’s challenging weather conditions. Brignone particularly showcased a unique blend of speed and control, securing a well-deserved win.

In the men’s competition, the Norwegian team’s tactical approach and teamwork were pivotal to their success, signaling a highly competitive 2024/2025 season. The next stage will take place in Levi, Finland, where the world’s top slalom skiers will go head-to-head.