Levi to host World Cup slalom events for first time since 2019

Kalle Palander, a retired alpine skier who ended his career in 2012, expresses confidence that Levi’s snow reliability will permanently secure its status as the opening venue for the World Cup slalom. The last time both men’s and women’s World Cup slalom races took place in Levi during the same weekend was in 2019. Palander, who has competed many times at the Levi resort, emphasizes the importance of welcoming the men back to compete.

“It’s incredibly important that we got the men back to the Levi competition. There was some worry about whether (the men’s race) would ever return,” he stated.

Jouni Palosaari, CEO of Levi Ski Resort, shares in the excitement, noting that the World Cup opening will occur on November 16-17, allowing for both men’s and women’s events. He highlights the significance of the media attention this brings to the resort.

With the preservation of snow stored from spring ensuring an early ski season, Levi stands out amidst concerns over snow reliability in many Central European locations. The advances in snow preservation technology at Levi have garnered the endorsement of the International Ski Federation (FIS), which has already scheduled World Cup races for the next two years.

Palander notes that the Levi event is not just significant for media visibility but is also crucial for the Finnish alpine ski team, providing six spots for male athletes. He believes that despite Levi being one of the easier courses on the World Cup circuit, its consistent conditions offer a unique competitive advantage.

Significant investments have been made at Levi to improve competition conditions, including new LED lighting on the slalom course, enabling races to be held at any time and even facilitating light shows. Levi’s World Cup event, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, has become a staple in the alpine skiing calendar since its inception in 2004.