Swiss star conquers challenging weather at Rettenbach Glacier to claim first victory of 2025‑26 World Cup in dramatic fashion

The 2025‑26 men’s FIS Alpine Ski World Cup season opened in high drama on the Rettenbach Glacier, as Swiss ace Marco Odermatt delivered a commanding performance in the giant slalom, overcoming treacherous conditions and stiff competition to claim the win.

In an event hampered by heavy snowfall and shifting visibility, Odermatt kept his composure, carving clean, aggressive lines to edge out Austrian rival Marco Schwarz and Norway’s Atle Lie McGrath for the top spot. Schweizer Odermatt’s combined time of 1 minute 56.03 seconds marked his 46th World Cup victory and his third win at Sölden.

Weather and conditions test the field
The race began under heavy cloud cover and fresh snow, which made the already steep Rettenbach slope even more demanding. Many racers reported deteriorating visibility and an increasingly irregular surface for the second run. According to post‑race reports, the second run was delayed to allow consolidation of the course after the snowfall.

Odermatt admitted that the conditions suited his style: “Definitely difficult ones, with the conditions, with the visibility, the snowfall, it was a tough race, but I usually like those tough races,” he said.

Narrow lead and strong finish
After the first run, Odermatt held a razor‑thin lead of just 0.01 seconds over Marco Schwarz. The pressure was on: the Austrian crowd hoped for a home win, and the conditions made the second run a reality test of nerves and technique.

In the second descent, Odermatt went on the attack. He extended his advantage to 0.24 seconds over Schwarz and closed out the win with McGrath another 0.27 seconds behind in third place. This result not only bolsters his credentials in giant slalom but also signals his intent in the overall World Cup battle.

Redemption and momentum
Last season’s opener at Sölden saw mixed results for Odermatt, and a win here answers questions about his early‑season form. With the glacier race behind him, he said, “It’s the perfect start into a new season… This is very good for getting into the season and having that confidence back.”

Having already secured four successive overall titles in past seasons, the Swiss star appears primed to continue his dominance. His victory in the season opener sets a high bar for his rivals.

What it means for the season
This win gives Odermatt early momentum—essential in a season that promises intense competition, with the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics looming on the horizon. The giant slalom discipline is likely one of his strongest platforms, and getting off to a winning start forces his competitors to respond.

Furthermore, a strong showing in Sölden often acts as a bellwether for a skier’s season. In that context, Odermatt’s win sends a clear message: he has arrived ready, sharp, and capable of thriving even under less‑than‑ideal conditions.

Looking ahead
The next stop on the World Cup circuit brings a change of venue and conditions. While Sölden’s high‑altitude glacier demands power and precision in cold, clearing air, future races will test different skill sets—from speed events to slalom specialty. For the athletes who finished behind Odermatt—Schwarz, McGrath, and others—it’s time to regroup quickly.

The Swiss team, buoyed by this opening result, will aim to build on the energy and carry it forward. For Odermatt personally, the win is more than just a stat—it’s affirmation that his summer preparation paid off and that he remains the athlete to beat.

In summary: On Tuesday,Marco Odermatt opened the 2025‑26 World Cup season with a resolute giant slalom victory in Sölden, navigating severe weather and stiff competition to take the win. The triumph reaffirms his status at the top of alpine skiing and sets the tone for a season in which he is very much the benchmark.