Marco Odermatt Photo: GEPA pictures/ Matic Klansek

On Sunday, October 29th, the skiing world will witness a thrilling showdown as Marco Odermatt, the reigning champion, steps onto the Sölden Rettenbach glacier. With considerable preparation fueling his ambition, Odermatt’s focus is unwavering. However, his rivals know victory is never a given in a sport where every millisecond counts. The anticipation builds, promising an electrifying battle as Odermatt faces contenders hungry to challenge his supremacy.

In a brief exclusive interview, Ski Racing Media talks to Marco Odermatt, the reigning champion. He reveals his thoughts on his preparation going into the season opener. Anticipation grows as Odermatt’s insights bring excitement to race day.

How confident do you feel about your preparation for the 2023-24 season?

I feel very good. The preparations went very smoothly. I was able to get through my summer program without any hiccups and we had some great days on the snow both in South America and in Switzerland.

You have been on the podium three times on the Sölden Rettenbach glacier. What level of confidence does that bring to the season opener?

It’s definitely nice to know that I have had some success there in the past. That gives me a certain level of confidence. But I know it’s not a guarantee for future success. Everything starts at zero again.

How are you feeling about your final preparations leading up to the race?

We’ve now entered a kind of pre-race routine. The last days before the race are generally quite similar. Sölden is no exception to this. So far, everything’s been going according to plan.

What emotions are you experiencing as you approach the season’s first race as the two-time reigning overall and GS champion?

I don’t really look back on past successes at this stage. I focus on the race ahead, trying to transfer the good feelings I had during practice into race day. Maybe there’s a little more calmness than in previous years, knowing I’ve won the overall twice. But it doesn’t reduce my appetite for success by any means. It’s rather a motivation for me to do it again.

Will your long-time serviceman Christian Lödler be by your side again for 2023-24?

Yes, Chris will be with me throughout the season. He’s definitely an essential piece of the overall puzzle and I look forward to collaborating with him again on and off the slopes.

The skiing community buzzes with excitement as the countdown to Sunday’s race narrows. Marco Odermatt, though a reigning champion, faces a formidable challenge. His competitors, fueled by ambition and skill, aim to dethrone him. Sunday’s race is not just a competition; it’s a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence, where surprises are expected. Stay tuned for a heart-pounding race day where the outcome is uncertain, but the determination of these athletes remains inspirational.