Alpine skiing

FIS alpine races 2025 / 2026 – a complete guide for spectators: Downhill, Super G, Giant Slalom, Slalom, Parallel Races and Alpine Combined

The FIS Alpine Ski World Cup brings the most dynamic scenes of winter sports – from the extreme speeds of downhill to the millimeter-precise turns in slalom. The 2025 / 2026 season in the mountains of Europe brings together the world's best skiers, and each discipline offers a completely different type of live excitement. For fans from Croatia, the journey to the alpine arenas has never been easier: many destinations are well connected, and with good planning, it is possible to combine a weekend getaway with a real sports spectacle. FIS competitions are both a sporting and a production experience. In the finish arena, you will hear a mix of fan drums, DJ sets, and cowbells, while on the slopes, the whistles of speed and the crunch of ice under the edges dominate. As a rule, a ticket is required for the best seats, but there are also fan zones and natural viewpoints along the course where you can feel the true "pulse" of the race. That's why many people plan their 2025 / 2026 calendar around a few key stops, from the season opener on the glaciers to the iconic downhills. For orientation: downhill and super-giant slalom (super-G) belong to "speed" disciplines with high averages and long jumps, while giant slalom and slalom are "technical" disciplines, with two runs and an emphasis on rhythm, weight transfer, and precise line setting. Parallel races offer a one-on-one format on identical courses, and alpine combined connects a speed part (downhill or super-G) with one slalom run. All of this makes the seasonal story that is, for spectators as well as for the sport, incomparable to anything else. Thanks to a tradition spanning decades, certain locations have become synonymous with entire disciplines. Lauberhorn above Wengen and Streif above Kitzbühel are connected by almost every story about downhill; Schladming is the host of the most famous night slalom; Sölden on the glacier often sets the rhythm of 2025 / 2026 through giant slalom duels. Each destination has its own atmosphere, logistics, and ticket structure, so experienced fans follow the details about prices, zones, and transport in advance. Who are the "main actors"? In alpine skiing, they are the disciplines. They shape the style, tactics, and what you will experience along the course. Downhill is a theater of gravity and aerodynamics; super-G requires courage, but also "reading" the course in one single run; giant slalom rewards "clean" lines and stability on larger radii; slalom is chess on ice with a lightning-fast rhythm of poles; parallel races raise the pulse of fans through direct duels; and alpine combined shows how important it is to switch from "speed" to "technique". Watching all this live means understanding why FIS races are the heart of winter sports. What the disciplines look like live (quick overview) Downhill: explosive start, compressions, jumps, and passages over broken terrain. Super-G: one run, gates set farther apart than in slalom, fast transfers and "reading" the line without a prior pass. Giant Slalom: wide and clean turns, two runs, often a large number of fans already in the middle of the course. Slalom: short, sharp rhythms and dramas of the second run, often under floodlights. Parallel races: knockout duels, a sudden change of lead in hundredths of a second. Alpine combined: a mix of speed and technique on the same day – a winning ticket for the audience that loves contrasts.

Why you should see FIS alpine races live?

 
• Spectacular performance: speeds above 100 km/h in downhill, jumps and steep sections on legendary courses show the limits of the sport; in slalom and giant slalom, you can feel the "impact" of every timely weight transfer.
 
• "Greatest hits" live: the night slalom in Schladming, the iconic downhill on Lauberhorn and Streif, and the opening on the glacier have become a "set list" that every fan wants to "listen to" from the front row.
 
• Energy with the crowd: thousands of fans, fan zones, drums, and flags create an atmosphere that television cannot convey; the change in standings in the second run of the slalom often gets the stadium "on its feet".
 
• Visual and scenic elements: races under floodlights, choreographies of fan clubs, and the choreography of the course itself (jumps, compressions, "S" sections) create a scene that looks like a realized set design.
 
• Audience reactions and reviews: Schladming gathers tens of thousands of people; season openers also attract families; Wengen offers viewpoints along the course and a natural amphitheater above the finish line – fans regularly describe the experience as a "mini-festival" on the snow.
 
• Review of previous editions: snow and wind dramas, speed records, and historic turnarounds in the second run have built the reputation of the races as an experience that is remembered for decades, not just one season 2025 / 2026.

The closer you get to the course, the better you understand the finesse: in giant slalom, you see the "living geometry" of the turn diameter; in super-G, the fine difference between speed and braking; in downhill, you appreciate the courage, especially in compressions and on landings. For the audience, it is a sport without a filter, where the sound of the edges and the roar of the crowd decide the impression. In 2025 / 2026, it is also worth following the evolution of the format. Parallel races are increasingly serving as a "showcase" for fans, and team concepts of the combined bring new drama – different profiles of skiers in the same race "story". All of this makes watching FIS live a unique and often affordable weekend trip compared to many other major sporting events in Europe.

FIS alpine races – how to prepare for "performing" as a spectator?

Choose a discipline according to your temperament. If adrenaline attracts you, downhill or super-G will thrill you with speed and jumps; for pure technique and the "drama" of the second run, slalom and giant slalom are ideal; if you want both "sport and show", the night slalom under floodlights has a specific charge. Include in your 2025 / 2026 program the season opener on the glaciers – it is most often a giant slalom, with excellent visibility and access to the stands. Past fan experiences and what "a good plan" means in practice Experienced fans book accommodation in towns near the course (or in valleys with a fast train/gondola) in advance. In Wengen (Lauberhorn), cars do not circulate – arrival is by train, and for certain zones, tickets also include train transport from a major hub. In Schladming, on the day of the race, parts of the parking lots near the stadium are closed; arriving by public transport or on foot from the center is often the fastest. For Kitzbühel, the "no stress" approach applies: arrive early, because security checks, fan zones, and the climb to the chosen spot can take time. Tickets and price range (examples for orientation, in €) Regular tickets for standing in the finish zone are usually the most affordable, and the prices of stands and VIP packages increase depending on the offer of food, drinks, and positioning. For example, for the season opener in Sölden, single-day tickets for standing and two-day combinations are available, with separate tickets for seating in the stand and the VIP offer. VIP packages can include separate terraces, gastronomy, and a view of the finish. Schladming as a "night spectacle" often offers combined VIP packages for two competitions in the same week, with a large price difference between the "silver" and "gold" categories. In Kitzbühel, general standing admission is sold exclusively online in advance, children up to a certain age often have free admission, and training runs can be open without charge – a good opportunity for a family trip 2025 / 2026. How to find the best seats? The golden rule: choose sections with a change in slope or a characteristic element (jump, "S" combination, compression). In downhill, these are the breakaways and jumps; in technical disciplines, the turns that "break" the rhythm and the finish line. The stands in the finish arena give an overview of the results and the reactions of the skiers after the run; the edges of the course higher up the hill offer the "pure" sound of the skis and the sense of speed. If you are coming with children, the finish arena offers more practical access to restrooms and food and beverage options. Arrival and logistics 2025 / 2026 For Wengen (Lauberhorn), plan for a train and a transfer; tickets for certain zones may include round-trip transport from the main railway hub. In Sölden, on opening days, a shuttle bus is provided between the town and the glacier, which is included in the tickets. In Schladming, check the traffic regime around the Planai stadium (on the day of the race, certain garages and service platforms may be closed), and temporary bus stops and info points operate until the evening. For Kitzbühel, follow the organizer's instructions – on-site sales for the main zones usually do not exist, so buying in advance is the standard. What to bring and how to dress? Layered clothing and waterproof shoes are the basis; for night races, take thinner gloves for cheering and thicker ones for standing still. A pocket thermos bottle and a fan hat "save" you after an hour or two of standing. If you plan to film, bring a power bank; the network often gets congested at its peak, so offline maps and screenshots of maps are worth their weight in gold.

Interesting facts about FIS races you might not have known

 
• The longest downhill: Lauberhorn near Wengen is almost 4.5 km long with a vertical drop of more than a thousand meters and averages that exceed a hundred. "Hundschopf" is an iconic steep section that tests control and courage.
 
• The craziest jumps and speeds: Streif above Kitzbühel is considered the most demanding downhill with slopes up to ~85% and speeds that top skiers can reach up to about 150 km/h – seen from the net along the course, it literally "whistles".
 
• Night under the floodlights: Schladming's Nightrace in technical disciplines regularly gathers tens of thousands of people – the fan wall of sound under the lights gives the impression of a football stand.
 
• Trains, gondolas, and walking routes: Lauberhorn is a "classroom" of logistics: a car-free village, transfers, and for some ticket categories, the return train is included; the finish zone is also accessible on foot from Wengen.
 
• "The opening" as a family trip: in Sölden, affordable tickets for standing are standard, with the option to pay extra for the stand or VIP – ideal for a first experience of a FIS competition 2025 / 2026.
 
• Parallel races and combined: parallel offers direct duels on two identical courses, while alpine combined connects a speed part and a slalom part – a concept that gives the audience two completely different dynamics in one race.

What to expect on race day?

 
• The "set list" of the day: course inspection (for technical), start of the first run, course preparation, second run (for slalom/giant slalom), flower ceremony and award ceremony; in speed disciplines, one run decides everything.
 
• Special program points: fan zones along the characteristic sections (jump, compression, "S"), DJ/podiums in the finish arena, occasional aircraft flyovers or choreographies by the organizers – it all depends on the location 2025 / 2026.
 
• The crowd: a mix of local and international fans, families, school groups, and fan clubs with drums and flags; during night events, the crowd is louder and more compact.
 
• Tempo and dynamics: in slalom and giant slalom, the second run often changes the standings; in downhill, the final sections decide the winner in hundredths of a second – it's worth staying until the last starting numbers.
 
• Approximate costs and upgrades: the most affordable entry to the fan zone or for standing is on the level of a cinema ticket price, the stands are mid-range, and VIP and "lounge" packages bring food and beverage services and terraces with a view – all in line with the budget 2025 / 2026.

Quick guide for choosing a discipline 2025 / 2026 If your priority is speed and the "wow-effect", choose downhill or super-G. Do you love technique, tactics, and turnarounds? Slalom and giant slalom under the floodlights are a perfect hit. Do you want "show" and duels? Parallel races are true "sprint" matinees. If you are with children or are going to a FIS competition for the first time, the season opener on the glacier with affordable tickets and organized shuttle lines is an excellent start. How to read maps and zones? The names of the zones (finish arena, stand, start plateau, "natural stands") differ by location. When buying, look at: the position in relation to the key sections (jump, compression, "S"), the distance to the restrooms and catering, and the rules of entry/exit. If you choose VIP, check if the package includes heated areas, a terrace, a separate entrance, and additional transfers. Small "survival kit" for 2025 / 2026 A paper map of the course, thermal clothing, hand warmers, a power bank, a pad for sitting and a small light for night races. In big crowds, agree on a meeting point if you get separated. For photos or videos, use short clips – batteries last longer, and the best shot often comes unexpectedly. Examples of prices (for informational purposes, in €) For the season opener on the glacier, tickets for standing are popular (example: price for adults on the day of one race), two-day combinations for both competitions, stands near the finish and VIP packages with food and drinks. In Schladming, combined VIP packages are also offered for two technical night competitions in the same week (for example "silver" and "gold"), and the price range varies significantly depending on the amenities included. In Kitzbühel, general standing admission is sold exclusively online in advance, children up to a certain age often have free admission, and training runs can be open without charge – a good opportunity for a family trip 2025 / 2026. The FIS calendar 2025 / 2026 offers the possibility for every type of sports fan to find their "scene" – from glacier giant slaloms to night slalom spectacles and iconic speed downhills. It is worth checking tickets and logistics in advance, and the real "key" to the experience is the combination of the discipline you love and the spot on the course that suits you best. Once you feel the speed and rhythm "live", the television broadcast will never look the same again. Iconic locations and how to choose among them 2025 / 2026 If it's your first encounter with FIS races, a good "entry" into the world of alpine skiing is the season opener on the glacier – for example, the giant slalom format with stands near the finish and well-organized shuttle transport. This type of event allows you to get from the town to the course and back without a car, and you also have a clear division of zones (standing, stand, VIP) with predefined amenities. On the opposite end of the spectrum are the legendary downhills with natural amphitheaters and long access routes, where the atmosphere is that of a "great festival" on the snow – with fan zones, music, and a long day spent along the course. Map of the experience by discipline Downhill rewards patience and early planning: the best seats are along the key sections where speed is "laminated" – jump, compression, change of slope. Super-G requires careful reading of the transitions from faster to slightly narrower gates; spectators are recommended to position themselves above the sections where racers "close" the line. Giant slalom and slalom benefit most from the stands: the second run brings turnarounds, and the finish arena fills with fan paraphernalia and choreographies. Parallel races are ideal for a one-on-one experience under the floodlights, while alpine combined shows the two extremes of the sport on the same day – speed and technique – which is like two shows in one for fans. Race week program 2025 / 2026 – how to read the schedule In technical disciplines, the usual rhythm is: first run, then course preparation, and then the second run with a "flip" of the standings among the top thirty from the first run – which means the tension increases towards the end of the day. In speed disciplines, everything fits into one run; training runs are a separate experience and often accessible to the public who want to get to know the course before the big day. In the manner of experienced visitors, it is worth planning the evening ceremonies: the drawing of start numbers, award ceremonies or performances in fan zones complement the sporting part and make the experience complete. What a "perfect day" along the course looks like Reserve the morning for arrival and positioning. If you choose a natural viewpoint, count on a little walking and check where the "bottlenecks" are (bridges, crossings, serpentines). The stands offer stability – numbered seats or sectors provide security of movement, and the catering and restrooms are closer. During the race, follow the announcements and screens – the passing times in key sectors reveal who is "on the lifeline" and who is losing in compressions or skidding. After the finish, stay for the flower ceremony: the live reactions of the skiers and the fan "wall of sound" are the best epilogue to the sporting part of the day 2025 / 2026. Comparison of atmospheres: glacier vs. "classic" The season opener on the glacier brings visibility and a compact crowd, often with families and fan clubs. The logistics are simple – shuttle bus and clear division of zones – which makes it an excellent experience for a first encounter with FIS. On the other hand, the "classics" of the speed disciplines create a special vibe: a long downhill that spills through the forest and alpine meadows, a sea of flags along the fence, local specialties at the stands, and hundreds of volunteers managing the crowd. For 2025 / 2026, it is worth combining at least one technical "night spectacle" and one speed "theater of speed". Accessibility and mobility: practical guidelines 2025 / 2026 Many arenas are made for an audience that arrives without a car. In mountain towns with limited traffic, trains, funiculars, and shuttle buses are the standard. Organizers often publish detailed instructions: included round-trip transfer from a regional hub, recommended routes without long waits, special ramps and sectors for people with disabilities and the possibility of an accompanying person with discounts. If you are coming with children, check the rules for children's tickets (age limits, free admission in standing) and pay attention to whether they offer additional amenities such as earlier entry, heated areas or viewing stands near the finish. Budget for 2025 / 2026 – where to save and where to upgrade The most affordable option is typically a standing ticket; two-day combinations for both competitions often bring a saving compared to two individual tickets. The stands raise comfort (better view, seating), and VIP packages include food, drinks, and heated areas with terraces. If you want a "premium" experience without the full VIP, there are also intermediate categories (e.g., "lounge" or "special guest" zones) that offer some of the VIP amenities at a lower price. In night races, it is worth reaching for a stand for visibility and the dynamics of the lights; in speed disciplines, think about a natural viewpoint along a characteristic section. Safety and etiquette along the course Respect the fences and the instructions of the marshals – skiers pass at speeds that surprise even experienced visitors. Avoid standing at the exits of turns and in places where the crowd can obstruct the view. Drones are generally not allowed; professional cameras and vivid fan paraphernalia are welcome within the organizer's rules. For children, bring earplugs because fan drums and loudspeakers can be loud; also agree on a meeting point in case you get separated in the crowd. What "reading the course" as a spectator means In downhill and super-G, the key is to recognize the fastest lines: entering the compression at the right angle, absorbing jumps without excessive "air time", and timely braking. In giant slalom, look for places where the rhythm of the gates "breaks" – that's where the differences grow. In slalom, pay attention to the precision of the hands and shoulders: on ice, every wrong dynamic impulse means one or two hundredths. In parallel races, the pleasure is comparing the two runs side by side; look for sections where the trajectory "closes" and who returns the skis to the edge faster. Examples of prices and rules 2025 / 2026 (for informational purposes, in €) For glacier events, typically there are: single-day standing tickets, two-day combinations, stands, and VIP/lounge offers; the price differences reflect included shuttle transport, a seat in the stand, and catering services. At the iconic speed weeks, general adult tickets start from the lower tens of euros, children up to a certain age often have free admission, and training runs are open without charge; sales are mostly exclusively in advance. Night technical races can also offer combined VIP packages for two events in the same week, with price ranges depending on the location, heated areas, and gastronomy. "Insider" tips for 2025 / 2026 Arrive earlier than you think you need to – security checks, transfers, and short walks to the zones can easily eat up an hour. If it's cold and windy, choose stands with your back to the wind or zones next to the forest. For the mobile network, expect crowds; offline maps and screenshots of the day's program are worth their weight in gold. If you want the best shot, don't just chase the finish – recordings from the "on the way" sectors (jump, compression, "S" combination) often turn out to be more impressive. In the evening, plan your return: avoid the "peak" after the award ceremony and move your departure for 20-30 minutes, with a warm drink in the fan zone. Why the crowd returns – the collective experience FIS weeks are not only sporting events but also social calendars for mountain towns. Squares fill with stalls, fan clubs put on choreographies, DJs and bands maintain the rhythm between runs. In technical, the tension is almost dramatically structured – after the first run, there is the "silence" of preparation, then the explosion of the second run – while in speed disciplines, the whole day "flows" towards those few minutes of truth. This is the reason why spectators constantly return and why each 2025 / 2026 creates its own, unrepeatable story. How the discipline affects the ticket choice In downhill, it's worth investing in a position along a key section or in stands with a good view of the finish straight, where "who left more speed" is measured. In super-G, "one run – everything" increases the importance of visibility, so a stand or a high edge along the course is a good compromise. Giant slalom wears out the legs and warms the throats – it's worth watching the turnarounds in the second run from the stand to follow every pass and change in standings. Slalom under the floodlights rewards the patient: if you want the "stadium" feeling, choose the lower sectors and listen to how the fan wave raises the temperature from start to finish. Parallel races are best experienced head-on in the part where the courses "close" again – photo-finish moments often decide. Family and group arrangements 2025 / 2026 If you are coming with children or a larger group, aim for events with clear packages: discounts for young people, children's tickets, the possibility of group purchases or special sectors for fan clubs. Training runs of speed disciplines are sometimes open without charge and are an excellent "testing ground" before the main race – you will see the course, try the transfer, and choose the ideal spot for the "main day". For groups, it is practical to agree on a starting point and spread out by zones; join the fan zone earlier to get a good position along the fence without the crowd. Extra tips for equipment and the rhythm of the day Layered clothing with a wind- and waterproof jacket, non-slip shoes and a thin backpack are the standard for 2025 / 2026. A fan hat, neck scarf, and hand warmers make a difference when the temperature drops below zero – especially in the evening. For filming, bring a power bank and memory; short video clips are better than "marathon" recordings. If you are in the stand, stick to your sector and avoid unnecessary movements during passes – the enjoyment is greater for both you and those around you. In natural zones, protect yourself from snow and ice spray – fan goggles are not "fashion", but practicality.

FIS alpine races – how to prepare for "performing" in 2025 / 2026?

Preparation for the FIS alpine races in 2025 / 2026 begins with choosing a discipline and location that suits your taste and budget. If you love fast shots and a long "view" of the course, downhill and super-giant slalom will reward you with jumps, compressions, and high averages. Do you want turnarounds and tactics, giant slalom and slalom bring a double dose of tension through two runs, and parallel races create the tension of direct duels on identical courses. Alpine combined connects the "worlds" of speed and technique on the same day, which is attractive for those who want a more complex experience. Planning 2025 / 2026 also includes logistics: transport to the mountain town, transfer to the course, and the rules of entry and zones. In some arenas, arrival by train and shuttle is encouraged, which facilitates movement on days of closed roads and large crowds. For technical disciplines, it is recommended to arrive early, so you can get a good position in the stand or along the fence directly above the sections with a change in rhythm. For speed disciplines, it's a "hunt" for characteristic points – jumps, changes in slope, and compressions – where you will get the best sense of speed and courage. Tickets and budget 2025 / 2026 – how to read the categories The typical division includes standing (fan zones, natural viewpoints), stands (numbered or sector seats), and VIP and lounge offers (heated areas, terraces, catering). For the season opener on the glacier, single-day and two-day combinations for both competitions are popular, with separate stands and multiple levels of VIP. At the "classic" speed weeks, there is often a rule that general tickets are sold in advance and exclusively online, while training runs are open without charge – which gives families and groups an opportunity to experience the course without the crowd of the "main day". In night technical events, the stands significantly increase visibility and the experience of light effects, and in speed disciplines, a good natural viewpoint can even outperform some of the views from the stands. The price ranges in 2025 / 2026 range from affordable standing admission (often on the level of a cinema ticket price) to the mid-range of stands, and all the way to VIP with included gastronomy and privileged views. Some destinations also introduce intermediate categories like "special guest" or lounge zones, which offer some of the VIP amenities at a lower price. For families, children's benefits and discounts are often offered, and sometimes training runs are free – an excellent option for a first encounter with a "big" downhill or giant slalom. Past experiences at iconic locations 2025 / 2026 Compare three different scenarios: the glacier with clear shuttle transport and a visible finish arena; the night technical spectacle with a fan "wall of sound"; and the legendary speed weekend with a multi-day program, a marathon of fan activities, and natural amphitheaters along the course. Each format has a specific daily dynamic: technical disciplines offer a "second run" as the final climax, while speed downhill compresses all emotions into one single run – ideal for those who love "pure" drama without a repeat. How to find the best seats in 2025 / 2026 In technical disciplines, look for stands with a view of the key rhythm changes and the finish line. Along the fence, it's worth standing a little above the "bottlenecks" – places where the skis "cut" the ice the hardest and where the crowd hears the edges "whistle". In downhill and super-G, you aim for breakaways, jumps, and compressions; the goal-line is not the only "stage", it is often more dramatic along the section where speed is built or "lost". In parallel races, the best shot is head-on along the part where the courses "close" again because photo-finish moments decide. Transport and arrival – a smart strategy 2025 / 2026 Numerous places are planned for arrival without a car: trains to the alpine switchbacks, shuttle buses to the course, and walking routes to the sectors. In some arenas, round-trip transfers are included in the ticket price, which facilitates the daily rhythm and frees you from worrying about parking. For night events, check for late departures as well – it is useful to stay for 20-30 minutes after the award ceremony, when the crowd "disperses" and transfers become faster. What to bring – equipment for cheering Layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, sturdy non-slip shoes, and a thin backpack are the basis of comfort. In your hand, hold a fan hat, hand warmers, and a neck scarf; in your pocket, a power bank for your mobile – the network at its peak is often congested, so offline maps and screenshots of the day's program become "salvation". For children, it is good to have earplugs; fan drums and loudspeakers in the finish arena can be loud.

Interesting facts about FIS races you might not have known

 
• Logistical "gems": there are races where the ticket also includes a round-trip train transfer from a regional hub to the mountain town – the audience thus gets a rhythm without a car, and the organizer relieves traffic.
 
• The "kickoff" on the glacier: the season opener on the glacier is known for its clear division of zones and shuttle buses between the town and the course; that's why many families plan their first FIS weekend 2025 / 2026 there.
 
• Night "stadium": the most famous night slaloms attract thousands of fans, with stands that create the impression of a football stadium and choreographies of fan clubs.
 
• Training runs as "secret advice": during speed weeks, training runs are sometimes open without charge, which allows families and groups to get to know the course, the transfer, and the viewpoints before the main race.
 
• Multi-level VIP: in addition to the classic VIP, there are also "lounge" or "special guest" categories, often with heated areas, terraces, and gastronomy – useful when you want comfort without the full "premium" price 2025 / 2026.

Approximate guide to prices 2025 / 2026 (in €) – for orientation In practice, several typical scenarios are encountered. For glacier openings, the standard is single-day standing tickets in the range of a few tens of euros, two-day combinations that offer savings, stands around the mid-range and VIP/lounge offers at multiple levels; the shuttle transport town-course is often included. At the iconic speed weeks, general adult tickets start from the low tens of euros, children up to a certain age often have free admission, and training runs are open without charge; sales are mostly exclusively in advance. Night technical spectacles have a wide range – from basic admission, to stands, to multi-day VIP packages – and the price depends on the location, comfort, and gastronomy services. Note that prices differ by zone, visibility, and included services 2025 / 2026. "Set list" of the race day – what exactly you are watching In technical disciplines, the schedule usually looks like this: first run, course preparation, then the second run with a "flip" of the standings among the top thirty from the first run. That's why the second run is magnetic – every pass can change the standings. In downhill and super-G, one run decides everything, so every second along the course is "denser". In parallel formats, you follow knockout duels; a detail worth watching is how skiers "close" their line and how fast they return the edge after a jump. The crowd 2025 / 2026 – who comes and how they cheer A mix of local and international fans, families, school groups, fan clubs with drums and flags. On the glaciers, the atmosphere is "family-friendly", in night technical events it is louder and more compact, and on speed weeks it's festival-like: a long day on the snow, mountain specialties at the stands, and the climax of adrenaline in a few minutes of "the real thing". Fans often follow several stops in 2025 / 2026 and combine techniques and speeds to capture the different "faces" of the World Cup. Safety and etiquette along the course Respect the fences, lines of movement, and the instructions of the marshals. Drones are generally prohibited, and professional equipment is allowed with the organizer's restrictions. In natural zones, be careful of snow and ice spray from turns. If you are touring multiple sectors with children, agree on a clear "meeting point" and a time to return to avoid wandering in the crowd.

FIS alpine races – how to prepare for "performing" in 2025 / 2026?

Plan your tickets in advance: standing is the most affordable, stands offer an overview and comfort, and VIP/lounge packages bring heated areas and terraces with a direct view of the finish. If you want a balance, an excellent combination is a stand and a short tour along the course above a characteristic section – that way you "catch" both the emotion of speed and the euphoria of the finish. Before you arrive, follow the organizer's announcements: program changes, safety rules, transport instructions, and the schedule of fan zones. In your backpack, pack layered clothing, a fan hat, goggles, hand warmers, a power bank, and a pad for standing. For night events, add a small lamp and "cheering" gloves. Special moments – "best live performances" from previous editions In downhill, the audience remembers most the sections with steep breakaways and jumps where the winner is decided in hundredths. In slalom, it's the runs when someone with a double-digit start number "catches" the perfect line in the second run and breaks through to the podium. At the glacier giant slalom, fans remember the "clean" lines in the upper steep section and the big changes in the lower sectors; in the parallel format, the adrenaline blitz of one-on-one leads to a collective cheer from the whole stadium.