30 Days Countdown to Ski Cross World Cup Start: A Sneak Peek into the Teams Preparations

With just one month to go, the stage is set for the biggest World Cup tour yet and the athletes are giving it their all in the final stretch of preparation. Let's take a quick look at what the top 10 teams in the world have been up to.

Starting with last season's leading nation, the Swedes, the Viking powerhouse dominated the charts, thanks to the nearly unstoppable force of Sandra Näslund, who clinched victory in every race of the season until a knee injury forced her to withdraw from the last two World Cups. For their pre-season grind, the Vikings set up camp in Stelvio for a total of 30 exhilarating days. As they gear up for the showdown in Val Thorens, they're perfecting their lightning-fast starts in the familiar slopes of Idre.

Meanwhile, the Canadians found themselves amidst perfect wintry conditions in Chile for five thrilling weeks. Alongside their intense battles on the ski cross course in Corralco, they reveled in powder runs, horseback rides, and leisurely moments with the many four-legged friends. The pinnacle of their camp was marked by the Chile winter series,  featuring two South American Cup races where they locked horns with the French elite. Olympic Champion Marielle Thompson showcased her blazing speed in both races, while the French newcomer Nicolas Raffort and the seasoned campaigner Duplessis Kergomard stole the spotlight on the men's side, sending a clear message to last year's dominator, Reece Howden: they're ready to take on the challenge this season.

Speaking of the French Team, following their exploits in Chile, they headed to the Swiss glacier in Saas Fee for a series of rigorous giant slalom and ski cross training sessions alongside the numerous Swiss Team and the Italian "Cavalli." Despite the challenging snow conditions, Saas Fee offered three distinct start sections, a roller section leading into a giant slalom area, providing the perfect arena for international showdowns. Fun fact, the recently retired Midol brothers were spotted back with the team, this time coaching young athletes.

The Austrians, securing the third spot in the Nations ranking last year, constructed a formidable 150-meter long private start section in Sölden, featuring challenging obstacles for skiers and snowboarders to finesse their techniques.

The German "Wolfpack" opted for early summer training in Les Deux Alpes, France, and ventured up north to Fonna, Norway. Following intense gym sessions, they returned to the slopes, this time indoors in Neuss, Germany, before embarking on ski camps in Stelvio, Italy. Daniela Meier, who faced an early season end due to knee surgery, shared her anticipation for the upcoming season. “I am feeling great, rehab has been going well, if nothing comes up in these last ski camps I’ll be starting in Val Thorens.”

Team USA is revving up and collaborating with the Germans this season again, strategizing for their forthcoming triumphs.

The British Skicross Team chose indoor skiing after their Chilean stint, basking in the Spanish summer heat while working on their indoor starts in Madrid.

Last but not least, Team Japan has been quietly gearing up. Their podium contender, Ryo Sugai, is feeling good and will soon be joining the Team in Pitztal for those final preparations before the season kicks off in 30 Days in France.