Switzerland’s Camille Rast delivered a powerful and emotional performance in Kranjska Gora, Slovenia, on Sunday, claiming victory in the World Cup slalom and dedicating her win to the victims of the devastating New Year’s Eve fire in her hometown of Crans-Montana.
The 26-year-old skier overcame Mikaela Shiffrin, the American skiing superstar, by just 0.14 seconds, following a stunning second run that showcased her speed, precision, and determination. This victory came just a day after Rast claimed her first World Cup giant slalom title at the same Slovenian resort, marking a remarkable double triumph in her World Cup career.
Racing for a Cause
Rast spoke openly about her motivation for racing, saying she was inspired by the tragedy at Le Constellation bar, where at least 40 people lost their lives and 119 were injured. “I think about all those families – we raced for them this weekend,” Rast told BBC Ski Sunday.
Her words resonated deeply, reflecting how sport can provide hope even in the aftermath of tragedy. “I hope they will find the support with their family and everybody around. And I hope that the sport will bring a little smile on their face,” she added.
Shiffrin’s Winning Streak Halted
American star Mikaela Shiffrin, 30, entered the Slovenian event on the back of an incredible streak, having won the first five slalom World Cup races of the season. Including her last victory from the previous season, this gave her six consecutive slalom wins – equaling her own record.
Rast, however, proved unstoppable. After trailing Shiffrin by just 0.1 seconds in the first run, Rast unleashed a flawless second descent, overtaking Shiffrin and securing her third career World Cup slalom victory. “I know Shiffrin is really fast and I had to be really, really fast to beat her,” Rast said.
Her performance demonstrated remarkable composure under pressure and highlighted her growing status as one of Switzerland’s top skiing talents.
Rast’s Double Triumph
Rast’s weekend in Kranjska Gora was extraordinary, achieving a World Cup double with victories in both the slalom and giant slalom events. This accomplishment further cements her as a rising force in alpine skiing and a key contender heading into the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, which begin on 6 February.
“I gave it everything I had this weekend – achieving the double was extraordinary,” Rast said after her triumph.
Looking Ahead: World Cup and Winter Olympics
The World Cup slalom season continues with two more events before the Winter Olympics:
- Flachau, Austria – 13 January 2026
- Spindleruv Mlyn, Czech Republic – 25 January 2026
Rast’s form suggests she will be a serious contender in both remaining events, and her victories serve as a timely boost for her Olympic preparations.
Meanwhile, Shiffrin will be eager to bounce back and reclaim her slalom dominance ahead of the Games. With a career total of 106 World Cup victories across all disciplines, Shiffrin remains the sport’s most decorated skier.
British Skiers Shine in Val di Fiemme
In other World Cup skiing news, Great Britain celebrated historic results in cross-country skiing. Joe Davies, 24, finished sixth in the 10km mass start free, while teammate Andrew Musgrave, 35, came eighth – marking the first time two British skiers finished in the top 10 at a World Cup event.
Davies said, “To have the results we’ve had this Tour de Ski means so much to us all. It’s not only a testament to the work we’ve put in, but also to the belief that British skiing belongs at the top.”
The British cross-country team for the 2026 Winter Olympics is expected to be announced on 23 January.
Meanwhile, Britain narrowly missed a podium in the men’s four-man bobsleigh in Winterberg, Germany, finishing fourth.
Key Takeaways
- Camille Rast won the World Cup slalom in Kranjska Gora, dedicating her victory to the victims of the Crans-Montana bar fire.
- Rast defeated Mikaela Shiffrin, ending Shiffrin’s winning streak in the slalom discipline.
- Rast also secured a World Cup giant slalom victory, completing a rare double win in a single weekend.
- British skiers achieved historic top-10 finishes in cross-country skiing, boosting the nation’s Winter Olympics prospects.
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