Featured Image: Zermatt-Cervinia endured heavy snowfall and gusts of wind, which led to cancellations both days. Credit: GEPA/ Mario Buehner-Weinrauch

Luck was not on the men’s side Sunday morning, and unfortunate weather conditions snowed in the speed-opener in Zermatt-Cervinia. The men were unable to race either day of the downhill that would debut the anticipated Gran Becca track. This completed the long week of challenging weather conditions where heavy snowfall and strong winds caused safety concerns.

Snowfall this morning started exactly when the forecast predicted, which initiated the FIS Chief Race Director, Markus Waldner, to question whether the men should race today. Then, gusts of wind blew in, which led to the ultimate decision to cancel.

This race was also canceled last year in 2022. Both years of cancellations have left many to question if early season is a good time for this track to see a debut. At the end of October, Sölden was supposed to be the men’s GS World Cup opener, but got canceled. This will be three races in a row that the men’s field has been unable to compete in during the early season. Hopefully the men’s tech teams will be able to kick out from the start gate in Gurgl next weekend. Excitement remains for the season and the men are eager to race for the top.