Ahtlete Saftey

Every international alpine race course must pass a detailed FIS inspection before competition can begin. Here is how homologation works, what inspectors evaluate and why the process plays a critical role in athlete safety.

It’s been ten years since Bryce Astle and Ronnie Berlack’s tragic accident in Sölden. BRASS Avalanche continues turning loss into impact—educating skiers worldwide, expanding into Europe, and urging everyone to think snow safety before chasing powder.

After surviving a near-fatal crash, Victor Wiacek turned his experience into purpose, founding VIX Protection to create cut-resistant gear that can save lives. His relentless innovation helped shape FIS safety standards and deliver life-saving protection now worn by top World Cup racers worldwide.

Kelly Brush Foundation Calls on FIS to Strengthen Safety Measures Following the Death of Italian

FIS has announced several new safety-focused equipment regulations for the 2025–26 alpine ski season. The changes include a ban on rigid shin pads inside ski boots, mandatory cut-resistant undergarments for Level 0 and 1 events, and required airbag back protectors in elite-level speed disciplines. Every FIS athlete—especially those competing on the Nor-Am, Europa Cup, or World Cup circuits—should review these updates and prepare accordingly.

French World Cup skier Cyprien Sarrazin suffered a severe head injury during a dramatic crash on the Stelvio downhill course in Bormio, Italy, Friday. Known for its demanding terrain, the course claimed Sarrazin after he landed hard off a roll and crashed through safety nets, prompting an airlift rescue. Diagnosed with a subdural hematoma, the Frenchman underwent emergency surgery, as confirmed by the French Ski Federation. Sarrazin had recorded the fastest training time just a day earlier and was eager to repeat his success from last season’s Bormio downhill. His crash has sparked renewed concerns over the icy, inconsistent conditions of this year’s course, with several racers criticizing its preparation and safety measures.

Norwegian World Cup skier Atle Lie McGrath has partnered with BRASS Avalanche, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization, to advocate for avalanche safety and education worldwide. BRASS’s mission, inspired by the tragic deaths of U.S. Ski Team athletes Bryce Astle and Ronnie Berlack in a 2015 avalanche, aims to prevent future tragedies through accessible education programs.

The FIS Council announced that airbags will become mandatory this season for all athletes competing in Alpine speed events at the World Cup level. Meeting online on Friday, the Council confirmed that the rule will take effect in the 2024/25 season. However, each National Ski Association can grant exceptions if an airbag restricts an athlete’s movement, causing potential safety risks.

One company leading the charge in pioneering cut-resistant ski clothing is SYNC Performance, based in Edwards, Colorado. Ski Racing Media caught up with SYNC's team to delve into their journey, challenges, and hopes for the future of cut-resistant ski attire.

In the world of alpine ski racing, safety is paramount. The thrill of speed on the slopes comes with inherent risks, and organizations like the International Ski Federation (FIS) FIS  are constantly evaluating ways to enhance athlete safety. One such initiative gaining traction is using cut-resistant clothing, a technology designed to mitigate the severity of laceration injuries, particularly in the lower limbs.