Giovanni Franzoni Dominates Lauberhorn Super-G at Wengen World Cup
In a stunning display of skill and determination, Giovanni Franzoni claimed his first World Cup victory at the Lauberhorn Super-G in Wengen, Switzerland. This event, held on January 16, 2026, showcased Franzoni’s remarkable control and speed as he finished the race in a time of 1:45.19.
Giovanni Franzoni Wins Lauberhorn Super-G
The 24-year-old Italian skier set an impressive standard for the competition, starting from bib 1 and maintaining his lead throughout the event. Despite challenging weather conditions and strong competitors, no skier was able to surpass his time.
Top Finishers of the Lauberhorn Super-G
- 1st: Giovanni Franzoni
– 1:45.19 - 2nd: Stefan Babinsky
– +0.35 seconds - 3rd: Franjo von Allmen
– +0.37 seconds - 4th: Marco Odermatt – +0.53 seconds
- 5th: Raphael Haaser – +0.68 seconds
- 6th: Ryan Cochran-Siegle
– +0.83 seconds
Race Highlights
Franzoni’s victory was not marked by a single spectacular moment but rather by consistent performance across all sections of the course. As visibility decreased, especially for later starters, his expertise in handling difficult conditions became increasingly apparent.
Milestones and Reflections
For second-place skier Stefan Babinsky, this race marked his first World Cup podium after 94 starts, a significant milestone in his career. Similarly, Franjo von Allmen earned his fifth career podium, demonstrating his reliability in high-pressure situations.
Ryan Cochran-Siegle led the American team, finishing sixth and indicating strong potential for the upcoming Olympic season. His performance underscored a broader trend of competitive excellence among high-bib racers, who thrived even amid challenging visibility.
Conditions Affecting Performance
The race featured two distinct phases influenced by changing weather. Early starters faced better light conditions, while later competitors had to navigate flat light and reduced contrast. Nevertheless, skillful skiing prevailed regardless of the conditions.
Conclusion
Giovanni Franzoni’s triumph at the Lauberhorn Super-G in Wengen is a landmark achievement for the young skier. His story, wrapped in perseverance and dedication, reflects the essence of alpine skiing—where both skill and strategy play crucial roles. As he celebrates this victory, the ski world eagerly anticipates his future performances on the international stage.
