The stage is set for the penultimate Men's Slalom race of the 2024/25 Alpine Ski World Cup calendar, taking place today, March 16, 2025, at Hafjell, Norway. This exciting event is eagerly anticipated by skiing fans around the globe. The first run kicks off at 9:30 AM, followed by the decisive second run at 12:30 PM.
Henrik Kristoffersen, representing Norway, leads the Slalom standings with an impressive 77-point gap over France's Clement Noel. Today’s race is especially significant for Kristoffersen, as he secures the number 1 start position for the first run, providing him with the advantage of fresh, untrammeled snow. Winning today could mean clinching the small crystal globe for the season, marking him as the best Slalom skier of this World Cup season.
Meanwhile, Swiss superstar Marco Odermatt is dominating the overall Ski World Cup standings with over 600 points separating him from Kristoffersen. Odermatt has secured his position at the top, leaving competitors astounded with performances across various disciplines this season.
The Norwegian community is particularly excited, as this race features several homegrown talents, including Atle Lie McGrath and Timon Haugan, who will compete fiercely for points during their home event. Observers expect the atmosphere to be electric with national pride and competition.
For viewers interested in catching the action live, the races will be broadcast on several channels. Eurosport 1 and ORF 1 will air both the first and second runs, starting their coverage at 9:15 AM for the first run and 12:30 PM for the second.
ZDF will also provide coverage, starting with highlights from the first run at 10:15 AM and following with delayed coverage of the second run at 12:55 PM. Sports enthusiasts can also opt for live streams through ZDF's online portal and subscription platforms like DAZN and discovery+ to catch every moment of the action.
The first run of today's Men's Slalom race promises thrills as athletes navigate the challenging course, testing their speed and skill on the slopes. Loic Meillard, who triumphed at the last race and managed to impress by finishing first after the initial run, aims to reset expectations again today. Should Meillard succeed, he could apply significant pressure on current leaders, including Kristoffersen, as he vies for the small crystal globe.
During the excitement of the first run, Meillard dazzled the spectators, leading with his pinpoint accuracy, creating distance from his competitors. He clocked in with 34 hundredths of a second lead over Brazil’s Lucas Braathen, who surprised many by finishing strong at second place. Following closely were the names Fabio Gstrein and Clement Noel, adding to the competitive intensity.
Around the backdrop of glorious winter wonderland, the second run will be the ultimate test of endurance and technique. Athletes like Kristoffersen, McGrath, and Haugan are undoubtedly focused on capitalizing on their home turf advantage.
Competition aside, today's Slalom race marks the emotional culmination of the alpine skiing season, as racers prepare to transition to the World Cup Finals scheduled for next week in the United States. The final events promise thrilling showdowns, including men's and women's downhill, super-G, and happenings across several categories, keeping the skiing butterflies alive for fans worldwide.
Results from today's event will not only determine seasonal standings but will also set the tone for the upcoming finals. With global attention on Hafjell, skiing enthusiasts eagerly await not just who takes home trophies today but how the races will affect individual legacies long term.
Overall, the Men's Slalom race today stands as yet another reminder of the legacy and vibrant culture surrounding alpine skiing, as athletes push their limits, aim for victory, and seek personal and national glory on the world stage.