Men’s World Cup Slalom in Val d’Isere Cancelled

The International Ski Federation canceled the Men’s World Cup Slalom in Val d’Isère today because of high winds. The decision was taken just minutes before the scheduled start in order to preserve competitors equity.  

Heavy snow fell overnight, but that was not the problem. A team of pisteurs and instructors had worked successfully to clear the course. However, as the violent gusts of wind strengthened the FIS decided it was unfair on the competitors who would not all be able to compete under the same conditions. The race forms part of the annual Critérium de la Première Neige in Val d’Isère.

The weather restricted the opening of lifts across the ski area this morning.  Some 30-80cm of snow fell overnight, but the violent wind meant that it was unevenly distributed.  There’s now more than a meter of settled snow at the top of the lift system and 32cm in the village.

Reaction of Vincent Jay, organisator du Critérium de la Première Neige :

“Cancelling a race is never an easy decision, all my thoughts are for the teams that have been working days and nights for the village, for the races. Alpine ski competition is part of Val d’Isère since the very beginning, this is making it even harder for the locals and partners.”

Reaction de Markus Waldner, head of FIS men’s races:

“We need to adapt ourselves to mother nature, admit that we cannot change it. Organizers from Val d’Isère have been more than professional this weekend and we thank them again for their work. We just cannot change the nature.”

Val d’Isère thanks the teams who gave all their energy to make this great rendez-vous of alpine skiing possible this year again.

Press release courtesy of Val d’Isere.