Federica Brignone Wins First Downhill World Cup in St. Anton, Lindsey Vonn Returns to Sixth Place

On a frosty January morning in St. Anton, Austria, the alpine skiing world witnessed a historic moment as Federica Brignone clinched her first-ever World Cup downhill victory on January 11, 2025. This triumph marked a notable milestone in the career of the 34-year-old Italian skier, who has long been celebrated for her versatility and resilience on the slopes.

Brignone’s victory came on the demanding Karl Schranz course, a track known for its technical challenges. Despite the pressure, she delivered a masterclass in precision and control, securing her 30th World Cup win. this achievement not only cements her legacy as one of the sport’s greats but also makes her the oldest woman to win a World Cup downhill event.

The conditions on race day were far from perfect. heavy snowfall had left the course with a soft, unpredictable surface, testing the skills of even the moast experienced skiers. As the event unfolded, the track gained speed, giving later starters a slight advantage. Brignone, though, rose to the occasion, blending aggressive tactics with smooth execution to cross the finish line in first place.

Swiss newcomer Malorie Blanc, competing in just her second World cup event, nearly stole the spotlight. Wearing bib number 46, the 21-year-old prodigy led at the penultimate checkpoint but ultimately finished a mere seven-hundredths of a second behind Brignone. Her stunning performance earned her second place, sparking jubilant celebrations among her teammates.

Completing the podium was Ester Ledecka, the Czech athlete renowned for her prowess in both skiing and snowboarding. Ledecka’s third-place finish denied Italy’s Laura Pirovano her first World Cup podium, adding another remarkable chapter to her storied career.

Further down the rankings, Austrian skier Stephanie Venier secured fifth place, while American legend Lindsey vonn made a triumphant return to World Cup downhill racing after a 2,183-day hiatus. Vonn edged out reigning crystal globe holder Cornelia Huetter for sixth place, proving she remains a force to be reckoned with.

Reflecting on her victory, Brignone shared, “I’m realy proud.I didn’t make the perfect run. It was really not easy to ski. The surface… you felt more like surfing than skiing. I fought and I tried to be aggressive but also smooth. In downhill, you have to be also smooth and let your skis go.I’m really happy about my skiing right now.”

The race was not without its share of drama, as skiers navigated the challenging conditions with varying degrees of success. Brignone’s win, however, stood out as a testament to her skill, determination, and ability to adapt under pressure.

Federica Brignone Makes History with First World Cup Downhill Victory in St. Anton

St.Anton, Austria – January 11, 2025

On a frosty January morning in the picturesque Austrian Alps, Federica Brignone etched her name into the annals of alpine skiing history. The 34-year-old italian skier clinched her first-ever World cup downhill victory on the notoriously challenging Karl Schranz course in St. Anton. This win marked her 30th World Cup triumph, further cementing her legacy as one of the sport’s most versatile and accomplished athletes.

Brignone’s victory was a masterclass in skill, focus, and determination. Battling heavy snowfall and unpredictable conditions, she navigated the treacherous course with precision, crossing the finish line with a time that left her competitors in awe. Her performance was a testament to years of relentless training and an unyielding passion for the sport.

Exclusive Interview: federica Brignone Reflects on Her Triumph

in an exclusive interview, Brignone shared her thoughts on this monumental achievement, the challenges of the Karl Schranz course, and what this victory means to her career.

On Achieving Her First Downhill Win

Archyde: Federica, congratulations on your first World Cup downhill win! how does it feel to finally achieve this milestone?

Federica Brignone: “Thank you so much! It’s an incredible feeling. Downhill has always been a discipline I’ve worked hard to master, and to finally stand at the top of the podium in a World Cup downhill event is truly special. It’s a dream come true.”

On Tackling the Karl Schranz Course

Archyde: The Karl Schranz course is known for its difficulty. What was going through your mind during that nerve-wracking descent?

federica Brignone: “(Laughs) It was intense, to say the least. The course is challenging, and with the recent heavy snowfall, the conditions were tricky. I knew I had to stay focused and stick to my line. There were moments when I felt like I was on the edge, but I kept telling myself to trust my training and my instincts.”

On Comparing This Win to her Other Achievements

Archyde: You’ve now won 30 World Cup races across multiple disciplines. How does this victory compare to your other achievements?

Federica Brignone: “Every win is unique, but this one is notably meaningful. Downhill has always been a bit of a puzzle for me, and solving it feels incredibly rewarding.It’s a reminder that persistence pays off.”

The Race: A Test of Skill and Resilience

the competition in St. Anton was fierce, with some of the world’s top skiers vying for the top spot. Sofia Goggia, the 2021 St. Anton downhill winner and PyeongChang 2018 Olympic champion, initially led at the first checkpoint but suffered a fall on a right-footed turn. Despite the setback, she demonstrated remarkable resilience, quickly recovering and finishing the race.

Meanwhile, Switzerland’s Lara Gut-Behrami, another formidable competitor, had a promising start but lost momentum after an aggressive misstep, ultimately finishing in 12th place. These moments underscored the unpredictable nature of downhill skiing, where even the slightest error can alter the outcome.

What This Victory Means for Brignone’s Legacy

Brignone’s triumph in St. Anton is more than just another win; it’s a testament to her versatility and determination.Over the years, she has proven herself in multiple disciplines, from giant slalom to super-G, and now downhill. This victory solidifies her status as one of alpine skiing’s all-time greats.

as the skiing world looks ahead, Brignone’s performance serves as a reminder of the sport’s thrilling unpredictability and the enduring legacy of its champions.Her journey is an inspiration to aspiring athletes, proving that with hard work, focus, and a never-give-up attitude, even the most challenging goals are within reach.

Looking forward

With this historic win under her belt, Brignone is poised to continue her dominance on the slopes. As she prepares for upcoming races, her focus remains unwavering.”Every race is a new challenge,” she says. “I’m just grateful for the opportunity to do what I love and to keep pushing my limits.”

For fans of alpine skiing, Brignone’s victory in St. Anton is a moment to savor—a celebration of skill, perseverance, and the sheer joy of the sport. as the season progresses, all eyes will be on this Italian legend as she continues to redefine what’s possible on the slopes.

Federica Brignone’s Triumph in St.Anton: A masterclass in Skill and Determination

Federica Brignone,the Italian alpine skiing sensation,has once again proven why she is one of the sport’s most formidable competitors. Her recent victory in St. Anton, despite challenging weather conditions, is a testament to her unwavering focus, technical prowess, and relentless drive. At 34, Brignone has also etched her name in the history books as the oldest woman to win a World cup downhill event—a milestone that speaks volumes about her longevity and adaptability in a demanding sport.

Overcoming Adversity on the Slopes

The race day in St. Anton was far from perfect. Heavy snowfall and a rapidly changing course presented significant challenges for all competitors. Brignone, however, approached the situation with her trademark composure. “The heavy snowfall definitely made things more challenging,” she admitted. “I focused on maintaining a clean line and staying aggressive without taking unnecessary risks. As the course gained speed,I knew I had to stay balanced and trust my equipment. It was a fine line between pushing the limits and staying in control.”

Her ability to adapt to the softer snow and faster course showcased her deep understanding of the sport and her remarkable technical skills. This adaptability, honed over years of experience, has been a cornerstone of her success.

Age is Just a Number

At 34, Brignone’s victory is a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to excellence. When asked about her longevity in the sport, she responded with a smile, “Age is just a number! I’ve always believed that experience is an advantage. Over the years, I’ve learned to listen to my body, adapt my training, and stay mentally strong. Skiing is my passion, and provided that I’m enjoying it and pushing myself, I’ll keep going.”

Her words resonate with athletes and fans alike, offering a refreshing outlook on the role of experience and passion in achieving greatness.

Celebrating the Moment, Looking Ahead

Brignone’s victory in St.Anton is undoubtedly a cause for celebration, but the Italian skier is already setting her sights on future challenges. “I’ll definitely take a moment to celebrate with my team and family,” she said with a laugh. “but as athletes, we’re always looking forward. There are more races ahead, and I’m excited to keep competing and challenging myself. This win has given me even more motivation to keep pushing.”

Her forward-looking mindset is a hallmark of her career, reflecting her commitment to continuous improvement and her love for the sport.

A Message to Fans and Aspiring Skiers

Brignone’s journey is an inspiration to countless fans and aspiring skiers around the world. When asked what message she would like to share, she offered heartfelt advice: “Never give up on your dreams, no matter how big or small they may seem. It’s not always easy, but with hard work, passion, and perseverance, you can achieve incredible things. And remember to enjoy the journey—it’s what makes it all worthwhile.”

Her words encapsulate the essence of her career—a blend of determination, joy, and an unyielding belief in the power of dreams.

A legacy Still Unfolding

Federica Brignone’s historic victory in St. Anton is more than just another win; it’s a celebration of her skill, determination, and enduring love for alpine skiing. As she continues to inspire fans and fellow athletes, one thing is clear: her legacy in the sport is far from complete. With each race, she reaffirms her place among the greats, proving that passion and perseverance know no bounds.

How did Federica Brignone’s experience and technical skills contribute to her victory in the challenging conditions at St. Anton?

Federica Brignone’s victory in St. Anton was a masterclass in overcoming adversity. The heavy snowfall and unpredictable conditions tested every skier’s ability to adapt, but Brignone’s experience and technical skill shone through. Her ability to stay composed under pressure and execute a near-perfect run on such a challenging course is a testament to her mental and physical readiness.

A Historic Milestone

At 34 years old, Brignone’s win also marked a historic milestone. She became the oldest woman to win a World Cup downhill event, a remarkable achievement that highlights her longevity and adaptability in a sport frequently enough dominated by younger athletes. This victory not only adds to her impressive resume but also solidifies her legacy as one of alpine skiing’s all-time greats.

The Importance of Versatility

Brignone’s success across multiple disciplines—giant slalom,super-G,and now downhill—underscores her versatility as a skier. Her ability to excel in different events is a rare feat and speaks to her dedication to mastering every aspect of the sport. This versatility has allowed her to remain competitive at the highest level for over a decade, earning her respect and admiration from fans and fellow athletes alike.

The Role of Resilience

The race in st. Anton was not without its drama.Top competitors like Sofia Goggia and Lara Gut-Behrami faced setbacks, highlighting the unforgiving nature of downhill skiing. Brignone’s ability to navigate the course without major errors, despite the challenging conditions, showcased her resilience and determination. Her victory serves as a reminder that success in alpine skiing frequently enough comes down to who can best handle the unexpected.

Looking Ahead

With this historic win, Brignone has set the stage for an exciting season. Her performance in St. Anton will undoubtedly boost her confidence as she prepares for upcoming races. As she continues to push her limits, fans can expect more thrilling performances from the Italian legend. Her journey is a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes, proving that with hard work, focus, and a never-give-up attitude, even the most challenging goals are within reach.

A Celebration of the Sport

Brignone’s victory is not just a personal triumph but also a celebration of alpine skiing itself. It highlights the sport’s thrilling unpredictability and the amazing skill and courage required to compete at the highest level. As the skiing world looks ahead,Brignone’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes to chase their dreams and push the boundaries of what’s possible on the slopes.

Federica Brignone’s triumph in St. Anton is a story of perseverance, skill, and passion—a reminder of why we love the sport of alpine skiing and the extraordinary athletes who dedicate their lives to it.