Franjo von Allmen Secures Final World Cup Downhill Victory Before Olympics
Franjo von Allmen triumphed in the men’s World Cup downhill in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, leading up to the Winter Olympics. His victory on Sunday marked his second downhill win of the season and fourth career win, solidifying his status as a top contender. Von Allmen finished 0.65 seconds ahead of Italian skier Dominik Paris, known for his expertise on the Bormio course.
Key Highlights from the Race
- Date: Sunday, days before the Olympic Games.
- Location: Crans-Montana, Switzerland.
- Winner: Franjo von Allmen (Switzerland).
- Runner-Up: Dominik Paris (Italy).
- Third Place: Ryan Cochran-Siegle (USA).
- Time Difference: Von Allmen was 0.65 seconds faster than Paris.
- Weather: Perfect sunny conditions, ideal for skiing.
Franjo von Allmen’s Dominance
Following the victory, von Allmen expressed his enjoyment of the slope, stating it brings him confidence. He aims to replicate his performance during the upcoming Olympic race, notably on the challenging Stelvio course where significant Alpine events will take place.
Notable Performances
Ryan Cochran-Siegle secured third place, achieving his second podium finish this Olympic season. He expressed satisfaction with his skiing, noting the rare sunny conditions enhanced his performance. Marco Odermatt, the World Cup leader, finished in fourth, ending his streak of podium finishes.
Challenges and Incidents
The race faced interruptions due to incidents on the course, including a crash involving Henrik von Appen from Chile, who had to be airlifted for medical attention. Additionally, the weekend was overshadowed by a tragic fire earlier this year in Crans-Montana.
Looking Ahead
With the Olympic downhill just days away, competitors are focusing on final preparations. Von Allmen’s confidence and prior victories position him as a formidable competitor. The atmosphere in Crans-Montana, despite recent tragedies, has been motivating for many athletes.
