Just as in years past, the media center for the speed classic on the Saslong is once again located in the gymnasium of St. Cristina. All media-related activities lead to this centrally located building during the race week - additionally, all media representatives are offered a safe workplace in the spacious and well-ventilated hall.

In the media center, which acts as the first point of contact for all media people, close attention is paid to ensuring that all applicable coronavirus regulations are observed. Taking the temperature at the entrance, the widely spaced work stations and the many disinfectant dispensers are just a few examples of how the organizers go all-out to ensure the safety of the media representatives.

"We have greatly reduced the number of press accreditations and have about two-thirds fewer journalists here this year than usual," comments Evi Hilpold, who has been serving as press center manager since 2018. A total of just under 100 journalists from eight different countries are expected in Val Gardena/Gröden by Saturday, with the majority of media professionals coming from the classic skiing nations of Austria, Germany, Switzerland or Italy.

In order to keep the risk of infection as low as possible, all journalists traveling to Val Gardena/Gröden must provide a negative test result in advance. An additional on-site test is mandatory - only if this is negative can the media center be entered. "Despite all the circumstances, we try to create as pleasant a working atmosphere as possible. That - in addition to flawless organization - is a basic prerequisite for optimal reporting," says Hilpold.