Mikaela Shiffrin, Sölden / GEPA pictures
Sölden Kicks Off the 2025-26 Alpine World Cup This Weekend
The 2025-26 Alpine World Cup season launches this weekend on the Rettenbach Glacier in Sölden, Austria — the start to an Olympic year. For the first time since March, the world’s best return to the start gate, ready to attack the steep, icy giant slalom course high above the Ötztal Valley.
Women Battle Saturday
The women open the season on Saturday, Oct. 25, with the first run at 4:00 a.m. EDT / 1:00 a.m. PDT and the second run at 7:00 a.m. EDT / 4:00 a.m. PDT.
The season begins without last year’s standout, Italy’s Federica Brignone, who continues to recover from a late-season injury. Even so, the depth of the women’s field is exceptional, packed with proven champions and rising stars. Fans can expect fireworks as nearly every top contender returns healthy and ready to push the limits. It’s the first chance to see North America’s best — and perhaps a few new names — charge into the Olympic season.
Men Race Sunday
The men’s giant slalom follows on Sunday, Oct. 26, with Europe switching back to standard time overnight. That means a 5:00 a.m. EDT / 2:00 a.m. PDT start for run one and 8:00 a.m. EDT / 5:00 a.m. PDT for run two.
Last season, Switzerland’s Marco Odermatt dominated the standings, but the field is closing in. Expect a true dogfight for the title this year as challengers aim to break his streak and make an early statement in Sölden.
How to Watch
- United States: Live and replay coverage on Peacock.
- Canada: Stream on CBC Sports.
- Great Britain: Both races air live on Discovery+ — first run 9:00 a.m., second run 12:00 p.m. UK time.
A Season Full of Promise
With an Olympic winter ahead, the excitement couldn’t be higher. The season opener in Sölden offers the first glimpse of form, rivalry, and new stories that will shape the months to come. Every turn counts now — and it all begins this weekend.
About the Author: SR Staff Report
