The FIS Alpine Skiing World Cup is set to light up the stunning slopes of Madonna di Campiglio on January 8, 2025, with the much-anticipated 3Tre Slalom. Known for its rich history and thrilling night races, the 3Tre event continues to be one of the highlights of the World Cup calendar, drawing ski fans and top competitors from around the globe.
The excitement is palpable as athletes prepare to tackle the famed Canalone Miramonti, where they will navigate challenging gates on one of the most iconic slopes. With its steep gradients and technical complexity, the Canalone Miramonti promises to test the skills of every skier involved. The first run is scheduled for 5:45 PM, followed by the second run at 8:45 PM, allowing fans to enjoy the spectacle under the lights.
This year, the competition is not just about titles; it serves as a stage for personal history and national pride, with Italy boasting some of the sport's greatest legends, such as Alberto Tomba and Piero Gros. Both champions have etched their names in history through remarkable performances on the same slopes where new stars are now being born.
Reflecting on the past, the event saw Gustave Thoeni securing four significant victories during the 70s and even featured the legendary Swedish skier, Ingmar Stenmark, whose five wins here have set the benchmark for excellence. Recent history hasn't been as successful for Italian skiers, with their last win coming from Giorgio Rocca back in 2005. The pressure is on for young talents like Alex Vinatzer and veteran Stefano Gross, both of whom have previously reached the podium at this venue.
This year’s race is projected to be highly competitive, with ski stars like the Norwegian Henrik Kristoffersen leading the specialty classification and seeking to add to his previous successes. With three wins under his belt at this event, and leading the World Cup with 270 points, Kristoffersen’s presence will make him one to watch as the race day approaches.
Alongside Kristoffersen, Daniel Yule from Switzerland, also with three victories at 3Tre, stands as another formidable competitor. He is joined by Loïc Meillard, currently holding the second spot with 245 points, and rising French skier Clement Noel, who has unfinished business after narrowly missing out on the podium two years ago.
Fans can expect heart-stopping moments and expertly executed runs as all contenders strive for the best times possible. The 3Tre is more than just a race—it's part of the cultural fabric of skiing history, which began with its inception as part of three competitions back on January 19, 1950. While the format has evolved, the essence of the competition has remained, giving athletes from around the world the chance to shine under the spotlight.
The atmosphere surrounding the event will be rich with tradition. On January 7, the excitement kicks off with various festivities leading up to the slalom, including the premiere of the film ‘La Valanga Azzurra’ at the Pala Campiglio, celebrating the glory days of the Italian ski team. Before the traditional bib-drawing ceremony, two iconic figures from the golden age of Italian skiing, Gros and Paolo De Chiesa, will be honored alongside Stenmark, who returns to Madonna di Campiglio to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his own 3Tre victory.
This historic narrative adds intrigue for fans eagerly awaiting the race, feeding the anticipation of competitive action and nostalgic reflection. Italian ski enthusiasts are hopeful for successful performances, especially as Vinatzer and Gross prepare for the event. Having previously stood on the podium, they will look to galvanize the home crowd with strong runs and perhaps, clinch Italy's long-awaited victory.
Throughout its history, the 3Tre has witnessed remarkable achievements and legendary performances, establishing itself as one of the premier events on the FIS calendar. The slopes have been graced by dozens of champions who have left their mark, and this year promises to add new chapters to the enduring legacy of the event.
Fans eager to catch the action can follow the live broadcasts, ensuring they don’t miss any of the high-speed drama or outstanding displays of skill. For those unable to attend, various platforms will provide streaming coverage, bringing the excitement of the 3Tre directly to viewers across the globe.
This year’s edition is more than just another stop on the World Cup tour—it is both celebration and competition, where the past meets the present. Skaters are ready, the course is set, and the stage is prepared for another unforgettable night of alpine racing. Will this be the year Italy returns to glory? Only time will tell, but the 2025 3Tre Slalom at Madonna di Campiglio is sure to be one for the books.