Last week, the International Ski Federation FIS approved the requirement for airbags for the downhill and Super G speed disciplines. Upper Austria’s ski ace Vincent Kriechmayr is not happy with this technology and will probably still compete without an airbag.
A back door in the FIS regulations makes an airbag refusal possible. National associations can allow exceptions for athletes who claim that the airbag dangerously restricts their freedom of movement. This is the case with movement talent Kriechmayr.
“I wear racing suits that are very flexible. I have to be able to move. The airbag didn’t fit me 100 percent yet,” says Kriechmayr. But the 33-year-old from Mühlviertel doesn’t want to be portrayed as an ignorant person who doesn’t care about safety. “In principle, everything that makes our sport safer should be supported, but there are other things that can be done. The airbag is not the panacea.”
More on the topic
Matthias Mayer back with the downhill team after a break
Kriechmayr is not alone with his attitude. Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, Dominik Paris and Lara Gut-Behrami also recently did not wear an airbag. Marco Odermatt, Sofia Goggia and many others are already equipped.
First speed race on December 6th
The first speed race of this season is scheduled for December 6th in Beaver Creek, where a downhill race has to be completed. In the next few days, Kriechmayr and the ÖSV speed team will be flying to the USA for training. It is certain that the ski association will register its top downhill skier with the FIS as an exceptional candidate for the airbag requirement.
FIS General Secretary Michel Vion recently made a clear plea for the airbag requirement: “For the FIS, the safety of the athletes is the top priority and is non-negotiable. We will support every measure that demonstrably contributes to improving health and the “To protect the well-being of athletes.”
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**Interview with Vincent Kriechmayr: The Airbag Controversy in Downhill Skiing**
**Interviewer:** Thanks for joining us today, Vincent. Recently, the International Ski Federation mandated airbags for downhill and Super G disciplines, but you’ve expressed some reservations. Can you share your thoughts on this new requirement?
**Vincent Kriechmayr:** Of course, thank you for having me. While I understand the intention behind the airbag requirement—to enhance safety—I personally feel that it restricts my movement. As a racer, flexibility in my racing suit is crucial, and I haven’t found an airbag that fits me perfectly.
**Interviewer:** You’ve mentioned that national associations can grant exceptions if an athlete believes the airbag hinders their performance. Are you planning to seek such an exception?
**Vincent Kriechmayr:** Yes, that’s correct. I plan to compete without wearing an airbag. The regulations allow it, and I believe that in my case, it’s necessary. I want to maintain my freedom of movement on the course.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like you’re not against safety measures in general. What other methods do you think could be explored to ensure skier safety?
**Vincent Kriechmayr:** Absolutely. While I support all initiatives that make the sport safer, I believe there are various ways to enhance safety without compromising our agility. For example, focusing on improving equipment design or refining training protocols can also lead to safer skiing.
**Interviewer:** Safety is certainly a crucial part of competitive skiing. Are there specific incidents that have influenced your perspective on airbag technology?
**Vincent Kriechmayr:** I’ve had my share of close calls and witnessed risks in our sport. However, my experiences have shaped a belief that safety measures should not interfere with a skier’s natural movement. The airbag may not be the solution for everyone, including myself.
**Interviewer:** That’s an interesting perspective. As you move forward in your career, how do you think this debate will evolve among athletes?
**Vincent Kriechmayr:** I believe it will be an ongoing conversation. Athletes will continue to weigh the pros and cons of wearing an airbag, and as technology advances, perhaps we’ll see improvements that address these concerns. Ultimately, it’s about finding a balance between safety and performance.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Vincent. It’s clear that this issue is multi-faceted, and we look forward to seeing how it unfolds in the future.
**Vincent Kriechmayr:** Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity to share my views.