About the Czech Ski Association
Opening Remarks from the President of the Czech Ski Association
Dear guests and alpine skiing fans,
It is with great joy that I welcome you to the Czech Republic, the Hradec Králové Region, and the picturesque town of Špindlerův Mlýn on the occasion of another edition of the Women’s Alpine Skiing World Cup.
It is a great honor for us that, after just three years, we once again stand alongside the world’s most prestigious skiing destinations and demonstrate that even a small country can host large and unforgettable sporting events.
The Czech Ski Association, the oldest ski federation in the world, celebrates its 123rd anniversary this year. Our long tradition is both a commitment and an inspiration to bring new energy and enthusiasm into skiing.
When organizing the World Cup in 2023, we faced exceptional challenges — from the lasting effects of the pandemic to the energy crisis. Nevertheless, through our joint efforts, we managed to organize a race that became an unforgettable part of Czech skiing history — a race that even Mikaela Shiffrin fondly remembered as one of the best-organized events of the season. We were all proud when she said:
“I love it in Špindlerův Mlýn! The course is amazing, and the fans are incredible.”
An incredible atmosphere was created by nearly 20,000 spectators over the two days of competition. The spirit of emotion, excitement, and joy of sport could be felt not only on the slopes but throughout the town and surrounding area. At the same time, it is a great responsibility for us. The level of organization and the overall quality of the event set the bar very high. Our goal this time is to once again offer not only top-level sporting action but also unforgettable moments beyond the racecourse.
I believe that together we will write another great chapter, and that the 2026 World Cup will be another edition fondly remembered in Špindlerův Mlýn and beyond.
I wish all of us an unforgettable weekend.
SKOL!
David Trávníček
President of the Czech Ski and Snowboard Association
A Look Back at 2019 and 2023
A fantastic atmosphere. An incredible experience. “We want to come back to Špindlerův Mlýn.” Those were the words of elite skiers after the unforgettable World Cup races in 2019. Four years later, Špindlerův Mlýn once again hosted this prestigious event and confirmed its place on the map of world skiing.
In 2019, nearly 19,000 spectators filled the venue, creating an electrifying atmosphere despite unpredictable weather. In 2023, that number rose even higher — nearly 20,000 fans came to Špindlerův Mlýn to cheer on their favorite athletes. Both editions became true celebrations of skiing, where top-level performances merged with passionate audience support.
Mikaela Shiffrin delivered outstanding performances in both years. In 2019, she won gold in slalom and bronze in giant slalom. In 2023, she added another slalom victory, reaching her 85th World Cup win. She said, “The fans were amazing. The weather wasn’t ideal for sitting and watching races, but they still came, stayed, and cheered for every athlete. They understand skiing, they were very kind and positive. It was a great weekend.”
Petra Vlhová also shone in both editions. In 2019, she won gold in giant slalom and bronze in slalom. After her victory, she said, “These are the moments I train for every day. I’m incredibly happy.” In 2023, she finished fourth in slalom and proved she still belongs to the world’s elite.
Among Czech competitors, the best result in 2023 came from Martina Dubovská, who finished 13th in slalom and received roaring support from the home crowd.
The organization of both editions was at a very high level. In 2019, more than 500 people participated in preparations. In 2023, organizers had to respond flexibly to changing weather — instead of the planned giant slalom, two slalom races were held. Even so, the entire weekend ran smoothly and the event was appreciated by both athletes and spectators.
Špindlerův Mlýn once again proved that it is capable of hosting world-class skiing events. Thanks to excellent organization, enthusiastic fans, and top-tier performances, it remains an ideal venue for future editions of the World Cup.
