Odermatt's sudden exit: Bullet suddenly gone?

Incredible but true: The usually indestructible Marco Odermatt crashed out in the last giant slalom of the season – and as the starting skier, no less. This paved the way for Lucas Pinheiro Braathen to win the Crystal Globe in the second run.

March 24, 2026

From: fop

The battle for the small crystal globe in giant slalom has taken an unexpected turn: Marco Odermatt, who was leading in the rankings, was eliminated after only a few seconds of racing at the World Cup final in Kvitfjell (Norway).

The overall World Cup winner from Switzerland struggled early on as the starting skier, and ultimately couldn't recover from his second major mistake – a crash and the end of his globe dreams? "I wanted to ski really well one last time and not play any number games. That was my decision. Unfortunately, it didn't work out," said Odermatt. This clears the way for Lucas Pinheiro Braathen.

With wings spread: Lucas Pinheiro Braathen takes off for a high-flying flight. © ANSA / JEAN-CHRISTOPHE BOTT

The Brazilian was only 48 points behind in the discipline standings before the decisive race – a fourth-place finish would now be enough for him to win the discipline title. However, Braathen is currently in top form: After a controlled and confident run, he even leads the standings and thus has the decision entirely in his own hands. Behind him, Stefan Brennsteiner (Austria) and Loic Meillard (Switzerland) are also on course for a podium finish.

Vinatzer loses a lot of time

Alex Vinatzer was the best Italian skier on Tuesday morning – although that was hardly any consolation. The 26-year-old from Val Gardena never really got any power into his skis, was far from the gates, and ultimately finished his run in 20th place, 2,74 seconds behind the winner.

Vinatzer will play in the second round (starting at 12:30). SportNews(Ticker) try to make up ground from behind. However, all eyes then turn to Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, who wants to seize the opportunity to pull off a coup.