Jan Zabystran Claims Maiden Alpine Ski World Cup Win in Val Gardena

The 27-year-old Czech skier Jan Zabystran unexpectedly won the Alpine Ski World Cup Super-G in Val Gardena, finishing ahead of Marco Odermatt by 0.22 seconds and Giovanni Franzoni, who trailed by 0.37 seconds. Starting with bib number 29, he delivered a perfect run to achieve his first victory and podium finish in the World Cup. He also secured the Czech Republic's first victory in the Men's Alpine Ski World Cup.

"It's a crazy day. I've never had a green light when I crossed the finish line before; today, a dream has come true. I was feeling really nice. It felt like nice, easy skiing. Today it feels clean. I went as straight as possible. It wasn’t so much about rollers and jumps and stuff; I just thought top 20 or top 30 is okay for me, but first place is beautiful. It’s something really crazy," said Zabystran.

After today's podium, Marco Odermatt leads the Giant Slalom, Super-G, Downhill, and Overall World Cup standings. Odermatt has finished in the Top 10 of his last 27 World Cup Super-G races, dating back to the race in Courchevel Meribel in March 2022. During this period, he has achieved 12 wins and 20 podium finishes.

"Today I took almost too many risks at times and had a bit of luck. It was very close to the limit. I'm relieved that everything turned out well. The light was extremely flat and blinding at the bottom. Combined with the fast snow, it was a bit too close to the limit," Odermatt said.

The 24-year-old Italian skier Giovanni Franzoni, a former Junior World Champion in Super-G and Downhill, also claimed his first World Cup podium.

"It’s incredible. The slope and conditions today demonstrated that I can ski fast on these slopes. I am feeling good, I am skiing well, and I can ski without pressure in my mind. But I think today and yesterday, I have to remember one person, our teammate Matteo Franzoso. This result has been for him," he said.