Nicol Delago is celebrated by her team. © Pentaphoto

Nicol Delago is overjoyed: “I dedicate this victory to…”

Nicol Delago will never forget this day: The Val Gardena native secured her first World Cup victory on Saturday in Tarvisio thanks to a furious performance. Afterwards, the downhill skier was ecstatic.

17 January 2026

From: det

Twelve days ago, Nicol Delago celebrated a milestone birthday. The downhill skier from Wolkenstein turned 30 on January 5th. The charming Val Gardena native gave herself the best present: Delago sensationally rode to her first World Cup victory in Tarvis. Starting with number 3, Nicol already conjured up a time in the snow that the big stars like Sofia Goggia, Lindsey Vonn & Co. struggled to beat.

Delago beamed from ear to ear afterwards, and when her maiden victory was finally confirmed, the South Tyrolean was ecstatic. "This is unbelievable, I can't even grasp it," she said. ORF-Interview. Shortly afterwards, Delago spoke to the Italian Winter Sports Federation. FISI in detail – and also looked back on the difficult last few years, in which she often lagged behind.

Delago looked perfectly at ease in the leader's chair. © Pentaphoto

“It hasn’t always been easy in recent years, which is why this victory today is so incredibly valuable to me,” said Delago, who added: “I would like to dedicate this victory to my parents (Norbert and Carmen, ed. note). They have always been close to us, and we owe them an immense debt of gratitude – both myself and Nadia (Nicol’s sister, ed. note).”

“Franzoni was an incentive for me.” Nicol Delago

As Delago explained, she was spurred on by a special result on Friday. "In the evening, I watched the videos of Giovanni Franzoni again, who celebrated his first victory in Wengen. That was an extra incentive for me. It feels surreal to have won here."

Sibling love: Nicol (left) and Nadia Delago. © Pentaphoto

For Delago, celebrating her first victory at the age of 30, after five previous podium finishes, is a particularly sweet and rewarding experience. "Everyone grows at their own pace, matures, and goes through different processes: Over time, you learn to recognize and appreciate yourself, and to be grateful for who you are and for the opportunities you have," said the Val Gardena native, who was also delighted for her sister Nadia, who achieved a remarkable 10th place. "We motivate each other, both on good days and not-so-good days," said the newly crowned World Cup champion.