The Swiss Ski Team heads to the Saalbach World Championships full of hope and anticipation for success. With several events set to kick off, experts are weighing the performance of notable athletes like Lara Gut-Behrami, Corinne Suter, and Michelle Gisin.
According to SRF expert Tina Weirather, Lara Gut-Behrami has shown promising potential in the Super-G category. "She is good form, especially when it counts," Weirather stated, acknowledging Gut-Behrami's past struggles with the course. "Last year's experience brought challenges for her, but this season looks different with improved conditions on the icy track."
Despite not performing as well as last season, Gut-Behrami still holds strong prospects. Weirather observed, "She is yet to tap fully of her potential this year, especially as her knee issues seem to have improved, allowing her to push harder and challenge for medals."
Corinne Suter stands out as one of the top favorites for multiple medals. Described as "a woman for big occasions," Suter has made significant strides since her recovery from injury. Weirather commented, "She is fully back and showing her strength, particularly on this track with its unique composition." With experience at high-stakes events, Suter aims to leverage her prior successes, including her Olympic win, to deliver again.
Michelle Gisin’s current form has not been as steady, but she remains optimistic as this championship offers her the chance to start anew. "She has nothing to lose and everything to gain," remarked Weirather. Gisin has the mindset to make bold moves, which could pay off if she finds her groove during the championships.
Young talent Camille Rast has surprised many this season with her rapid improvement and competitive spirit, allowed by the high-pressure setting of the world championships. Weirather highlighted Rast's steady technique during races as pivotal for her current success. “It seems she’s found her rhythm; awareness of her racing skill is finally coming together,” Weirather noted.
Wendy Holdener has also stepped up her game, known for performing extraordinarily during high-stakes moments. With twelve medals already earned at such events, her experience could provide the edge needed for podium finishes. Holdings remains determined to achieve her first World Cup victory, stating, "I need the perfect conditions to shine."
Marc Berthod provided his insights on the Swiss squad's competitive dynamics, commenting on their potential to outshine rivals, particularly Austria, which has been dominant on the slopes.
"The Swiss team is more cohesive and buoyed by shared successes, each member firming up the dynamic," Berthod said. "We have depth and quality across the board, making us the team to watch for medals."
The course itself offers unique challenges. While the Austrian team has trained intensively on the steep runs, Berthod emphasized the learning curve for the Swiss contingent, which includes adapting to unfamiliar stretches of the course. "It’s not the steepest course we’ve seen, but it differs significantly from the technical challenges the Swiss women are used to facing," he explained.
Looking back on Suter's resilience, last year’s injury proved to be both physically and mentally challenging. During her recovery, Suter focused on holistic improvements, attending to both her physical readiness and psychological resilience. "You have to accept when your body says slow down, and I did, learning patience through the process of rehab," Suter reflected on her path to recovery.
Suter considers herself well-preparediate for her championship debut on Thursday at 11:30 am, stating, "Even though I’ve only trained for these conditions briefly, my past experiences at high-stakes events give me the confidence I need."
The excitement among the Team is palpable as Gut-Behrami, Suter, Gisin, Rast, and Holdener prepare to hit the slopes. Each athlete carries their personal narratives and motivations forward, positioning them as formidable contenders during this much-anticipated championship. What lies at the end of their efforts remains to be seen, but as the experts ponder their fates, one thing is clear: Swiss Ski Team is ready to make its mark.
The next few days will tell if they emerge victorious, but the blend of experience, youth, and skill makes this year's Swiss team one of the strongest we've seen at the World Championships to date.