Mattherhorn Cervino Speed Opening: Final Snow Control on Saturday, October 22nd

FIS will carry out a final snow control for on Saturday 22nd October for the Audi FIS World Cup Matterhorn Cervinio Speed Opening races. The men’s speed races are scheduled to take place 29-30 October on the Gran Becca. After holding a preliminary snow control today it was decided, based on the favorable forecast, to hold a final snow control on Saturday.

Together with Chief of Race Rainer Senoner and LOC President Franz Julen, FIS Men’s Speed Race Director Hannes Trinkl and Assistant Race Director Raimund Plancker were on the "Gran Becca" above Zermatt and Cervinia on today for an initial snow control. Work on the spectacular downhill slope facing the Matterhorn is well advanced. Snow is only missing on the last 300 meters of the course, which should be able to be completed with two to three cold nights.

«The Matterhorn Cervino Speed Opening is taking place for the first time and is a unique project. Large investments were made for this premiere. We want to leave no stone unturned so that the Matterhorn Speed Opening can start as planned on October 29th and 30th and we believe these extra six days will make the difference for the organizers to be able to host successful races" says Michel Vion, FIS General Secretary.

Furthermore, the preparatory work done on and off the race track, as well as the favorable weather forecast for the end of the coming week with temperatures that are expected to be well below zero, were decisive for holding the final snow control.

“We are very grateful to the FIS for this opportunity. The International Ski and Snowboard Federation believes in a successful first edition of the Matterhorn Cervino Speed Opening, just like we do. Our team will continue to work consistently and with great commitment so that the first cross-border World Cup downhill run can take place", explains LOC President Franz Julen in conclusion.