The World Cup is stopping in Alta Badia for the 40th time. © Alta Badia Brand

40 years of Gran Risa: A meeting for the big celebration

This year, Alta Badia celebrates the 40th edition of the Alpine Ski World Cup races. To mark the anniversary, a meeting with the leadership of the International Ski Federation (FIS) took place on Thursday.

July 31, 2025

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In December, the Ski World Cup circuit returns to Alta Badia with two men's races to celebrate the 40th anniversary of World Cup racing on the Gran Risa. On Sunday, December 21, the giant slalom will be held as usual, followed by the slalom on Monday, December 22. To prepare for these two events, a meeting between the organizing committee and representatives of the International Ski Federation (FIS) took place in La Villa on Thursday.

Among the participants were race director Markus Waldner, director of technical disciplines Janez Hladnik, and FISI representative Massimo Rinaldi. They were welcomed by the organizing committee, including president Andy Varallo and the event's technical team. During the meeting, which also included a piste inspection, the final organizational details were finalized to ensure the smooth running of the two races.

40 years of history on the Gran Risa

The year 2025 marks a special milestone for Alta Badia: 40 years ago, in December 1985, the Gran Risa hosted its first Ski World Cup race. The historic giant slalom was won by Ingemar Stenmark, who celebrated his 80th World Cup victory. Since then, the Gran Risa has developed into one of the most technically demanding and storied World Cup courses, providing countless unforgettable moments.

Big names like Marco Odermatt also won at the Gran Risa. © APA / TOBIAS STEINMAURER

The Gran Risa also brought great success for Italy: from the Azzurri's triple triumph with Richard Pramotton, Tomba, and Oswald Totsch in 1986, to the four victories of Alberto Tomba, and the successes of Davide Simoncelli and Massimiliano Blardone. International ski legends such as Marcel Hirscher and Marco Odermatt have also won here several times.

The World Cup races in Alta Badia have long been an integral part of the Ski World Cup calendar. With pride and great anticipation, the organizing committee, together with all staff, volunteers, and partners, is preparing to celebrate this significant anniversary with a special event packed with highlights and a fitting tribute to the first 40 years of the Ski World Cup in Alta Badia.