Sölden ski races mark begin of World Cup

Thrilling races in the middle of autumn await visitors at the World Cup opener in Sölden. The world's best skiers will meet on October 23 and 24, 2021 for the first giant slalom: On Saturday, the women will start, and on Sunday, the men will be in action on the Rettenbach glacier. Spectators are also allowed to join in again this year.

>> All dates: Ski World Cup 2021/2022

The Rettenbach Glacier's special feature is its difficult incline of up to 65%. From the starting house at an altitude of 3,040 meters the athletes face 46 to 54 slalom sticks, depending on the route. 

>> See webcam with a view of the course

Fans will be able to see almost the entire course from their stands and seating areas. And there is a lot to see, with athletes reaching maximum speeds of 85 kilometers per hour. 7,000 meters of security fences and 4,000 meters of safety nets have been installed for security purposes, as well as 11,500 meters of cable to supply the necessary technologies.

>> See webcam with a view of the finish area

Schneehöhen

After last year's races had to take place in front of a ghostly backdrop, this year spectators are allowed again. However, just like all winter sports enthusiasts over the age of 13, they must comply with the 3G rule on the race weekend and either be vaccinated, recovered or tested. Registration is also compulsory at the event site on the glacier. Test stations for free antigen tests (24h) are available several times in Sölden. Registration takes place via the platform "Tirol testet".

Instead of over 25,000 spectators as in the past, the organisers in Sölden want to limit this year. Only 5,000 tickets will be sold per race day. According to the current Corona regulations in Austria, organisers would not have to adhere to distance rules, mask requirements or spectator limits with 3G and registration requirements. Nevertheless, the ÖSV and the organising team in Sölden have voluntarily opted for fewer spectators.

Tickets will be sold exclusively online this year and each ticket will be personalised (online shop). Tickets for adults cost 22 euros, children 11 euros. Those who have a valid ski pass do not have to pay admission to the World Cup races, but they still have to register. The following applies to all: Those who want to go up to the glacier on the race weekend must show their 3G proof at one of the checkpoints in the valley in order to receive a COVID control band.

>> Read more about the Corona measures

Friday, October 22^th 2021

Saturday, October 23^th 2021

Sunday, October 18^th 2020

(Changes and additions can be made at any time.)