Today we woke up to a clear sky and enjoyed the beautiful landscape overlooking the mountains. The atmosphere was electric: athletes from 24 nations were fighting for their final Olympic quota spots.
The sprint track was fast and demanding—flat at the start, then a decisive climb into the diamond zone before a clean downhill and a high-speed skating finish where every line choice mattered. It was the perfect setup for drama.
Women’s Sprint
The women’s race showcased the depth of talent on the field. Margot Ravinel (FRA) delivered a flawless day from start to finish. After topping her quarterfinal, semifinal, and final rounds, she secured victory with a dominant 3:14.8, confirming her fantastic form.
Behind her, the Italian duo performed exceptionally:
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Giulia Murada (ITA) claimed 2nd, +13.1, after consistent strong skiing throughout each heat.
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Katia Mascherona (ITA) completed the podium in 3rd, just +13.2 back.
Célia Perillat-Pessey (FRA) crossed the line ahead of the Italians, but a false start penalty pushed her down to 5th place despite fast splits earlier in the day.
Marianna Jagercikova (SVK) seized 4th, and Maria Costa Diez (ESP) finished 6th, rounding out a final with strong international representation.
Marina, despite a powerful qualification time and promising earlier rounds, couldn’t convert it into a podium finish this time—but her performance hinted at strong potential for the rest of the season.
Men’s Sprint
The men’s final was a showcase of Swiss precision and speed. Jon Kistler (SUI) opened his season in spectacular fashion, winning his first-ever World Cup sprint with a brilliant final run of 2:40.7, securing victory by +2.7.
Right behind him, teammate Arno Lietha (SUI)—fastest in qualification—took 2nd after another strong set of heats. Their 1–2 finish underlined Swiss dominance.
The fight for the final podium spot was intense.
Maximilien Drion du Chapois (BEL) delivered a sensational comeback after a tough qualification, winning his quarterfinal, placing 3rd in the semi, and earning 3rd place in the big final (+11.0).
Robin Galindo (FRA) finished 4th, followed by Biel Pujol (ESP) in 5th, and Ot Ferrer (ESP) in 6th after difficulties in the final heat.
