World Cup expert round: Verena Stuffer predicts the descent

The native of Val Gardena was part of the “Azzurre” speed team for years. In total, she took part in the World Championships three times, namely in Val-d'Isère (2009), Garmisch Partenkirchen (2011) and St. Moritz (2017), where she competed in the downhill in each case. A 19th place in St. Moritz was her best result. The 34-year-old ended her career at the end of last season.

Verena Stuffer about… … the favorites and secret favorites in the women’s downhill: “If you look at the last races, I see Sofia Goggia, Nicole Schmiedhofer and Stefanie Venier as really hot candidates. But the circle of those who can win a medal is very large. Ilka Stuhec is always dangerous, Nicol Delago is in good shape, Nadia Fanchini and Francesca Marsaglia can also be at the front. And Lindsey Vonn? I think she will try everything to get on the podium. Of course, you can never write off someone like her. I would also like to wish her a good finish, she has given a lot to the sport of skiing. It’s definitely going to be pretty exciting.”

… the chances of the only South Tyrolean Nicol Delago: “I can imagine that the slope suits her, she already made people sit up and take notice at the Junior World Championships with 6th place. This year she is in good shape. In my opinion, a top 5 place is possible.”

… their best World Cup experience: “I took part in the World Cup three times, namely in Val-d'Isère, Garmisch Partenkirchen and St. Moritz. Unfortunately things didn't go quite as planned in terms of sport, but I remember other things well. For example in 2011 in Garmisch, when Christof Innerhofer won three medals. We were in the same hotel as the men at the time and there was of course a lot of hype around Christof. I also really enjoyed the opening ceremony in Val-d'Isère.”

…difficulties in a World Championship race: “At a World Cup there is only ever one race, and therefore only one chance. But you shouldn't think about it too much and approach the race like any other. To be at the forefront, everything has to fit together, you have to be a little tense and completely trust the materials. Underdogs often win a medal because they have nothing to lose – in contrast to the top favorites.”

… your winning tip: “I’m betting on Sofia Goggia.”

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World Cup expert round: Verena Stuffer predicts the descent

In our World Cup section, former or injured South Tyrolean ski aces give their tips for the races. We spoke to Verena Stuffer about the women's downhill run on Sunday (12.30 p.m.).

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