© Meribel World Cup
71 Days to Meribel’s Alpine Ski World Cup Finals
All you need to know about the Meribel World Cup
In two months’ time, Méribel will host the most prestigious event in the skiing calendar, the Finals of the Alpine Ski World Cup. From 22 to 28 March, the world’s elite skiers will compete on Méribel’s Roc de Fer competition slope. It’s a big deal for Méribel – this is the first time a French resort has won the honour of hosting the World Cup Finals and it will be Méribel’s biggest event since the 1992 Albertville Olympic Games. Here’s what you need to know..
Who will be competing?
This, the last event in the ski season, sees the top 25 skiers in each discipline (Downhill, Super-G, Giant Slalom and Slalom) compete to win the coveted Cristal Globes. Competitors are expected from around 20 nationalities.
Where is it taking place?
All the events take place on the Roc de Fer piste, with the Downhill starting near the summit and other events commencing from progressively lower down. The finish line for all events is at la Chaudanne, in the resort centre.
What’s the programme?
- Wednesday 18 March: men’s and women’s Downhill.
- Thursday 19 March: men’s and women’s Super-G,
- Friday 20 March: team events.
- Saturday 21 March: women’s Slalom and men’s Giant Slalom.
- Sunday 22 March: men’s Slalom and women’s Giant Slalom.
Where is the best place to watch from?
For the Downhill and Super-G, the best place to watch is by the Cherferie tunnel (where the Roc de Fer piste crosses the Gelinotte piste). From here you can see 60% of the course and get close to the action. There will be giant TV screens here, commentary on loudspeakers and a bar. Alternatively, watch the end of the races at la Chaudanne finish line.
For the Team and Slalom events, watch at the Chaudanne finish line where there will be grandstands and giant TV screens.
Will it affect my skiing?
Very little. Although the resort is expecting around 70,000 spectators during the week of the event, the competition should have minimal impact on holiday skiers. Events Director, Christophe Mugnier says: “The Roc de Fer pistes affects only 2% of the ski area, so there will be plenty of space elsewhere in the heart of the 3 valleys to ski. As the races will end before midday, my advice is to enjoy the show in the morning and make the most of the ski area afterwards.”
Will the resort roads be closed?
Only the main road from la Chaudanne to the town centre, Route de la Montée, will be closed to traffic each afternoon during the competition. One side of the main road to Mottaret will be used for car parking. Extra, free Meribuses will be laid on for the event.
Can I ski on the course before and after the event?
Yes, the Roc de Fer piste will remain open during the season and skiers are actively invited to ski the course, as this helps compact the snow. Just please don’t try doing it at World Cup speeds…..
Will it be shown on UK TV?
Yup, the event will be shown on Eurosport
Will there be any British competitors?
Our top hope is slalom skier Dave Riding. He was placed 17th in the Sochi slalom and his results get better all the time….
What else is going on during the week?
The public is invited to take part in lots of events away from the slopes. Watch the opening ceremony, enjoy live music and parties after the competitions, take part in processions though the town and attend the draw for start order at the Olympic centre. Or, if you really want to be part of the event, volunteer – 500 helpers are needed during the event. Sign up here.
I’ve never watched a ski race – will I enjoy it?
Yes! The atmosphere will be brilliant - get an idea by watching the official teaser video.
