Schladming, Austria — Timon Haugan has captured the spotlight once again, securing victory in the men’s World Cup night slalom on January 29, 2025. This remarkable win at the iconic venue gave the Norwegian ski team its second triumph within two days, following teammate Alexander Steen Olsen's giant slalom victory just the day before.
Haugan's performance at the Planai Stadium was electrifying. After having finished second during the first run, he pushed himself harder during the second, overtaking Austrian competitors Manuel Feller and Fabio Gstrein. Haugan clocked an impressive total time of 1:48.05, leaving Feller in second place with 1:48.25 and Gstrein third at 1:48.72.
The atmosphere was palpable with around 22,500 fans cheering on the racers, many of whom were hoping to see local stars shine. Haugan, who has already claimed his second win of the season, expressed immense joy after his performance, stating, "This is crazy. This is the best one so far. Schladming is just different." His sentiment resonates with many who recognize Schladming as a mecca of slalom skiing.
This race was particularly significant as it was the last men’s slalom held before the upcoming world championships scheduled for February 4-16, 2025, at Saalbach-Hinterglemm, where Haugan previously claimed glory last March during the World Cup finals. Citing his confidence, Haugan remarked, "With the last win and the win in Saalbach last year, it’s hard not to be one of the favorites." Given the close proximity to the championships, his recent performances position him as one to watch.
The competition unfolded dramatically as Haugan, channeling lessons from previous events, made calculated moves on the slope. Initially trailing behind Linus Strasser, last year’s night race champion, Haugan refused to succumb to the pressure. Strasser, who had led after the first run, faced difficulties during the second run, finishing fourth overall.
Adding to the drama was Feller’s comeback. This season had been tough for the reigning Slalom Crystal Globe champion, who initially struggled with his form. Nevertheless, he capitalized on the home ground's energy, digging deep to achieve second place. Reflecting on his performance, Feller remarked, "There could be a…better place in the ranking, but altogether I am super happy. I found my balance and found the way I'm risking a bit more. Super happy with the podium and to share it with Fabio, with his first podium ever."
For Gstrein, finishing third not only marked his first podium at the World Cup but also ignited festive celebrations among the Austrian fans. His surprise at reaching the top three was palpable, with Gstrein stating, "It’s really cool; first podium at home, Schladming... I skied like I always do. Tried to do like in training, good skiing and I think it worked." Both Feller and Gstrein’s achievements showcased the Austrian team's resilience and determination as they looked forward to the world championships.
On the other hand, the competition also saw the French Olympic champion Clément Noël struggle, skiing out early during his second run. This unexpected misstep cost him the chance to maintain his lead atop the season standings. Following his mishap, Henrik Kristoffersen of Norway climbed to the top of the slalom season rankings, just three points clear of Noël, with Haugan not far behind.
Looking forward, the men’s World Cup has one more slalom race before the world championships, set for March 1-2, 2025, in Kranjska Gora. The excitement continues as athletes, especially Haugan, gear up for the peak of the skiing season.
Each win, each podium, and each narrow miss adds layers to this thrilling season of skiing, where talent meets determination on the slopes. With only days to go until the world championships and with Haugan's invigorated spirit, the anticipation is only growing, promising more exhilarating races to come.