ALPINE SKI. During the FIS Congress in Barcelona (SPA) in June 2014, the Alpine Committee introduced a new format – the sprint race – which will be tested in the European Cup this season.

The new format consists of a qualification run from which the best 30 athletes advance to the finals. The final is then composed of a semi-final (best 30 racers) and a final (best 15 racers) on a shortened course, taking approximately 30 seconds for slalom and 50 seconds for giant slalom. The compact product will allow the best racers to compete twice within a short amount of time and promises increased action and excitement for the spectators and television viewers.

Located in the northern Italian region, Pozza di Fassa will be hosting the first test of the event when the traditional night slalom on the Alloch slope will be staged as a sprint race. The competition will be broadcast live on TV.

Later this season, there will be a men’s giant slalom sprint in Lelex (FRA). On the ladies’ side another slalom sprint will be staged in Innichen /San Candido (ITA) which will be broadcast live.

The results of the sprint races will count for event rankings in the European Cup (SL or GS), while FIS points will be awarded to all athletes who finish the qualification run. 

After the 2014/15 season, the outcome of the new format will be evaluated and a decision will be made as to whether to introduce the format into next season’s calendars.

FISalpine.com
29 October 2014 13:41

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