Markus Waldner
The Alpine Ski World Cup starts the new season in a week. The Covid pandemic remains the dominant topic.
After a season without spectators, up to 5,000 fans will again make the pilgrimage to the Rettenbachferner in Sölden to watch the women's giant slalom on Saturday (23 October) when the glacier opens.
A first step back to normality in the Ski World Cup, which, however, still provides for a bladder for the athletes. Giant slalom aces must provide 3G proof to start in Sölden. A vaccination is not required.
Quite the opposite of the overseas races in Canada. Because to enter the North American country, both stitches must have been made. That is why the speed races in Lake Louise, which take place at the end of November and beginning of December, triggered a real wave of vaccinations in skiing.
“There was a long discussion, but then the new FIS leadership decided to race in Canada anyway,” explained FIS Race Director Waldner. Recently, several ski stars were apparently vaccinated. “Some have waited a long time because of the Canada affair, but by now men and women have understood that you have to be vaccinated if you want to ride. Everyone can be vaccinated so that they can start the winter smoothly,” Waldner continued .
It was recently speculated that 20 or more top riders in the men should not be immunized yet. “At some point you will need the vaccination anyway. The measures can be stricter at any time. And the Olympics in China will not go without a complete vaccination anyway,” added the South Tyrolean.
In addition to Austria, 3G proof will also be sufficient in the USA – provided you can show a letter of invitation. However, in speed races with several training sessions beforehand, tests are necessary every 72 hours. “Last year we were alone on the mountain, there we are still in our bladder. In the village and in the hotels we now meet with tourism. The possibility of an infection is always there. And if you are positive, you no longer ride “concluded Waldner.
