Exploring the Numbers: Insights from the 2023/24 World Cup Downhill Season

Mikaela Shiffrin: GEPA pictures

In the pulse-pounding world of downhill racing, the 2023/24 World Cup season has displayed danger, skill, and adrenaline rushes. Let’s delve into the data that defined this gripping season for both men and women.

Among the top 30 downhill skiers for each gender, the men averaged 29.87 years, with the youngest at 22 and the eldest at 39. Conversely, the average age for women was 28.63, ranging from 20 to 33. This mix of ages demonstrates the diversity of elite skiing.

North Americans among the top thirty

The Stifel US Ski Team made a strong showing, with three men and three women among the top 30. The US men, averaging 31.67 years, brought experience to the table, while the women, averaging 29 years, also revealed the value of being a veteran.

Alpine Canada Alpin also left its mark with two men and one woman among the top 30. The Canadian men, both 26 years old, brought youthful energy, complementing the 27-year-old woman, who delivered world-class skiing

North American skiers showcased their prowess on the global stage during the 2023/24 World Cup downhill season with multiple podium finishes.

USA’s Bryce Bennett made waves with two podium appearances, including a thrilling victory in the season’s inaugural downhill race. Canadian racer Cameron Alexander also impressed with two podium finishes.

Click on images to enlarge

North American women earned their share of downhill podiums, securing three podium finishes from three different athletes. Stifel US Ski Team’s Mikaela Shiffrin kicked off the downhill season with a win, followed by her teammate Jacqueline Wiles securing second place in a downhill in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Adding to the North American women’s success, Canadian skier Valérie Grenier also earned her career-first downhill podium in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

These achievements underscore the depth and talent within the North American skiing community, setting the stage for continued excellence in the seasons ahead.

NorAm Athlete with 2024/25 personal World Cup start spots

On a broader scale, the US women earned both NorAm downhill World Cup spots for the upcoming season, while the men’s spots were split between the US and Canada, each securing one.

Looking beyond individual rankings, the overall NorAm winners from Canada—Simon Fournier and Arianne Forget—earned spots in every World Cup discipline. While they probably won’t opt for downhill, their achievements highlight the depth of talent in skiing.

As we reflect on the 2023/24 World Cup downhill season, it’s clear that this sport continues to captivate with its high speeds and demanding tests of skill.

Delve into the accompanying charts offering 2023/24 World Cup downhill data and draw your own conclusions about the competitive landscape and the performance of North American teams.

Men’s World Cup Downhill Data

Women’s World Cup Downhill Data