Clara Direz: Journey from France to the World Cup Podium and Giant Slalom Stardom on the Skiing Is Believing Podcast

Featured Image: Clara Direz competing. Credit: GEPA

In the 28th episode of the Skiing is Believing Podcast summer series, Matt and Alan chat with Clara Direz, the talented French giant slalom skier.

She shared her incredible story from growing up in the French Alps with parents who were always heavily involved in skiing and racing. Her father even worked very closely with Dynastar, the company that Direz has trusted throughout her professional career.

Clara had her best season yet on the FIS World Cup circuit during the 2023/24 season, achieving consistent top results in Giant Slalom. However, her journey to success began earlier when she clinched her first World Cup victory in Sestriere in 2020.

In that race, Clara triumphed over the renowned Mikaela Shiffrin in the round of sixteen, positioning her as a dark horse for her first World Cup podium. After defeating the Italian competitor, Marta Bassino, she needed to work hard to win against Eliza Moerzinger in the final run. She managed to finish ahead of Moerzinger to claim the victory.

Having gotten her first podium and win at age 24, many expected her to continue to provide world-class results. However, she endured several injuries that prevented her from getting into the swing of seasons.

In the episode, she highlighted the power of the French team and expressed optimism about the future, particularly for women, which appears to be very bright. Clara has been happy to take on the senior role on the team and aims to help younger athletes develop into top-quality World Cup competitors.

Please let us know what you think of this or any other episode you’ve listened to. Find us on Instagram and YouTube at @skiingisbelievingpodcast, or contact us via email at mattgarcka.skiingisbelieving@gmail.com.