21 (!) starters missing

Ski World Cup: The food has never been so spicy

The crashes of Aleksander Aamodt Kilde (left) and Cyprien Sarrazin had bitter consequences.

(Bild: AP/Alessandro Trovati, GEPA)

Three weeks after the Bormio "carnage", the speed stars are back on the gas pedal from today. In other words, those who are still left. 21 (!) potential starters in the super-G (today) and downhill (tomorrow) will have to watch on injured.

The "Krone" reports from Wengen

"Things have never been as tough as they are this year, so mistakes and serious crashes are almost inevitable," says Daniel Hemetsberger, not beating about the bush.

Daniel Hemetsberger

(Bild: GEPA/GEPA pictures)

But why is the food so spicy this winter? The "next generation" of racers is bringing a fresh uncompromising attitude and choice of lines, forcing the established racers to be even more aggressive and take even more risks. Added to this is the material, which has now probably been pushed beyond its limits. And with the controversial carbon shin guards, a new facet has been added. They not only offer protection, but also more stability - and therefore enable even "sharper" lines.

These carbon protectors were also a hot topic at a "crisis meeting" between the head coaches and the FIS in Wengen. As was the idea that skis in the speed disciplines should have a minimum weight (around 14 kg) and that skiers should wear back and head airbags in future. This is for the FIS to decide. Because athletes, teams and ski companies will never come to an agreement - due to their own interests ...