As every year, the Saslong Classic was heralded in on the Sunday before the race week with a kick-off meeting. The organizing committee, the staff and the various institutions gathered at the Kulturhaus in Selva to look ahead to the 57th edition of the World Cup races in Val Gardena.

After a short introduction by Rainer Senoner, President of the Saslong Classic Club, the Mayor of Selva, Roland Demetz, took the floor. “Even though the World Cup races have been held here in Val Gardena for over 50 years, every edition is different. We have to adapt to the different conditions and circumstances. It remains a challenge even after more than five decades - also with a view to the 2031 World Championships, which are certainly a few steps above the World Cup. I wish the entire team every success and a great week,” emphasized Demetz.

Senoner then presented the competition program to those present, which includes a super-G on Friday, December 20 and the classic downhill on Saturday, December 21. The training sessions are scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. He asked those present to “pay particular attention to this year's World Cup races in order to note any improvements or changes that can be implemented before the 2031 Alpine World Ski Championships”, said Senoner.

Moritz Demetz, Marcello Cobelli and Evi Hilpold then gave an insight into the news and program of the “Events and Catering”, “Ticketing” and “Communication” areas. Particularly pleasing is the fact that the FORST Saslounge has already been sold out for both race days for several days.

Rainer Senoner then referred to a special sustainability campaign. This year, CO2 emissions will be measured during the World Cup week - in cooperation with the International Ski and Snowboard Federation FIS. The data will be analyzed at the end of the season so that measures can be taken as quickly as possible to reduce emissions. The President concluded by thanking all those present for their commitment. “We are a team and each and every one of you is important for the success of our event. Thank you for your huge commitment. We are the hosts this week and will do everything we can to make our guests feel at home,” said Senoner at the end of the meeting.