Rainer Senoner, President of the Saslong Classic Club, draws a positive conclusion at the end of the Val Gardena/Gröden XXL race week. At the same time, the organizing committee is already looking ahead.

Mr. Senoner, this year there was one more race than usual on the Saslong program. Did this significantly change the preparations?
An additional race naturally means a need for greater organizational effort at all levels. Luckily, we are well prepared for this and can respond appropriately. I think that this year we have once again shown that we can work reliably at short notice and deliver at the highest level. For us, this World Cup week was another important step towards the 2031 World Ski Championships, which have long been an integral part of our plans.

The race week was marked by changing conditions: initially there were warm temperatures, then sleet and finally fog. How did you manage to overcome these challenges?
Flexibility and dealing with external factors are part and parcel of alpine skiing. Longer days and last-minute adjustments are also part of this sport. I think our team made the right decisions throughout the week – whether it was canceling the second downhill training session or postponing the sprint downhill. In these moments, our extensive experience paid off once again.

You repeatedly emphasize the role of the team. How important is a well-coordinated team for a successful race week?
When we successfully stage a World Cup week here in Val Gardena/Gröden, it is always a team effort. We can count on a very well-coordinated team, in which experienced members have their place alongside newcomers. The excellent cooperation with our external partners is also particularly important – I am thinking here of the FIS, the race jury, the coaches and the teams, to name just a few examples. This week is a real joint effort, and that is exactly what makes us strong.

Finally, looking ahead: what are the prospects for the World Ski Championships?
We gain valuable experience from every race week and continue to learn. Our approach is long-term, based on the motto “Passion & Performance.” Every World Cup week is another building block on our way to the 2031 World Ski Championships. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved for their excellent cooperation and the trust they have placed in us. Thank you – and see you next year!