Popov Triumphs in Historic Win
Strasser and Feller Fall Short
With only the top five racers from the first run remaining, Albert Popov of Bulgaria led the finish-area standings. Germany’s Linus Strasser was the first to challenge but, struggling with consistency this season, skied cautiously and finished 0.82 seconds behind Popov, missing the podium. Austria’s Manuel Feller followed, seeking his first podium of the season. However, his run ended in frustration as he failed to finish for the third time this season.
Popov Secures the Podium
With three racers left, Popov needed to outlast just one more competitor to guarantee his second career podium. Croatia’s Samuel Kolega, chasing his first-ever World Cup top-three finish, crossed the line in second, just behind Popov. This ensured the Bulgarian a spot on the podium.
Meillard and McGrath Decide the Outcome
Switzerland’s Loïc Meillard, a seasoned veteran, skied next, delivering a composed run under pressure. Despite a strong effort, he finished behind Popov, ensuring the Bulgarian no worse than second place. Norway’s Atle Lie McGrath, the first-run leader with a 1.21-second advantage, was the final racer to start. Unfortunately, McGrath failed to finish, sealing the historic victory for Popov.
“This victory is a dream come true,” said Albert Popov. “To achieve it here in Madonna di Campiglio makes it even more special. I love the race, the slope, and the incredible crowd—thank you all for cheering. We aimed to peak in January, and starting the month with my first win is amazing. This is for my team, my family, and my daughter Kaya. Thank you for being part of this journey.”
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A Win 45 Years in the Making
Popov claimed his first World Cup win, a landmark moment for Bulgarian skiing, as it marked the nation’s second victory ever and the first in 45 years. The only other Bulgarian to win a World Cup race was Petar Popangelov, who triumphed on Jan. 8, 1980. Meillard finished second, taking the lead in the slalom standings, while Kolega earned his first career podium in third.
“Madonna is always a challenge, and tonight was not the easiest race,” said Loïc Meillard, who overtook Henrik Kristoffersen to take the lead in the race for the Slalom Crystal Globe. “I made some mistakes, but another podium feels great in the end. Right now, things are working well. With a few good results behind me, I’ve gained confidence, allowing me to push even harder.”
Samuel Kolega Reflects on His Breakthrough
“Just wow, I’m really lost for words right now,” said Samuel Kolega after earning his first World Cup podium. The Croatian had never qualified for the second run in any of his five previous World Cup races on the Canalone Miramonti piste.
“It’s not just the podium for me today,” Kolega added. “I never actually scored World Cup points on this hill before, and today it was such a breakthrough for me. I’m full of confidence now and just want to carry this momentum through the rest of the season.”
Victor Muffat-Jeandet Opens the Second Run
France’s veteran Victor Muffat-Jeandet kicked off the second run as the 30th and final qualifier from the first run. Starting first gave him the advantage of a pristine course, and he capitalized with an aggressive approach. Muffat-Jeandet delivered clean, precise skiing, setting the benchmark of 1:48.17 for the racers who followed.
Ritchie Shines for the Stifel U.S. Ski Team
The first of the two Stifel U.S. Ski Team’s second-run qualifiers, Benjamin Ritchie, skied 9th and showcased poise and determination. Having the best season of his young career, Ritchie crossed the line with a 0.53-second advantage over Muffat-Jeandet, beginning his rapid climb up the standings.
Ritchie’s excellent second run, second fastest, propelled him up 14 positions, ultimately finishing 8th. This career-best result marked his first-ever top-ten finish and a significant highlight for the Stifel U.S. Ski Team.
“I’m really happy with this result,” said Ben Ritchie after earning his first career top-10 finish. “The first run was alright, but in the second run, I put down some really good skiing. I know I’ve got a little more in the tank, but it feels amazing to be competitive with the top guys. It wasn’t anything special for me—just skiing I know I can consistently deliver—and it’s a great way to start January. Our team is skiing so well this season, with points in every race. There’s a lot of momentum, and I know we’ve still got more to give.”
“I’m super pleased for Ben,” said U.S. Men’s Slalom Head Coach Tristan Glasse-Davies. “He’s extremely determined and dedicated—all the qualities you want in an athlete. His hard work is paying off, and today’s performance showed that. His second run was executed really well, and it’s great to see him gaining momentum. The whole team is heading in a good direction, and I’m excited for what’s ahead this season.”
Mid-Race Drama for the U.S. and Beyond
The last skier among the first 15 to race was Brazil’s Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, the 2022-23 World Cup slalom champion. Despite his pedigree, Braathen crossed the line in third, with half the field still left to compete. Switzerland’s Daniel Yule retained the lead, with Ritchie in second, keeping the race wide open.
Jett Seymour, the fastest Stifel U.S. Ski Team qualifier, skied 14th and began with a razor-thin 0.03-second advantage over Yule. However, Seymour lost time by the first timing sector and ran into trouble, ultimately failing to finish.
Popov Takes Command
As the race progressed, the competition intensified. With ten racers remaining, Yule continued to lead, followed by Ritchie in second and Braathen in third. Norway’s Henrik Kristoffersen, the season’s slalom World Cup leader, finally overtook Yule with a combined time just 0.13 seconds faster.
However, Popov soon surged into the lead, skiing a blistering second run, the fastest of the evening, to finish 0.74 seconds ahead of Kristoffersen. Popov’s commanding performance left seven racers yet to challenge his time. By the time only five skiers remained, Popov’s lead was still intact.
Why the Second Run Delivers Unmatched Drama
The second run format in Alpine tech races creates unparalleled excitement. With only 30 skiers qualifying, racers compete in reverse order of their first-run times. This format ensures the slowest qualifier starts first on a pristine course, while the fastest skier races last, holding the advantage of their initial time. Frequent lead changes build tension as each competitor challenges the clock, culminating in the final racer deciding the outcome. It’s this thrilling unpredictability that makes the second run a spectacle for fans and athletes alike.
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Results
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Fastest Three and North Americans: First Run Analysis
