Alpine Skiing: ‘King of Bormio’ Paris Claims Olympic Gold, Italy Wins Double Downhill Medals
During the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics, Alpine skiing showcased thrilling performances at the Stelvio Ski Centre in Bormio, Italy. On February 7, 2026, Dominik Paris achieved a significant milestone by securing his first Olympic medal after competing in five Winter Games. Paris, affectionately known as the “King of Bormio,” earned a bronze medal in the men’s downhill event, thrilling the home crowd.
Paris and Franzoni Shine in Bormio
In a remarkable display of skill, Paris, 36, was joined on the podium by rising Italian star Giovanni Franzoni, who claimed the silver medal. The gold medal was awarded to Switzerland’s Franjo von Allmen.
A Long-Awaited Achievement
This moment was particularly special for Paris, who expressed his delight at finally achieving this long-held dream. Competing on the challenging Stelvio course, where he previously secured seven World Cup victories, he said, “I knew this was the last opportunity. Seeing this big dream finally come true means a lot to me.”
Franzoni, just 24 years old, has quickly made a name for himself in the sport, earning two World Cup victories earlier in the season. He credited Paris for his success and expressed gratitude for the mentorship he received. “Dominik is such a legend. He has been giving me a lot of tips during this World Cup season, and I really appreciate that,” Franzoni shared.
Turning Pressure into Performance
Despite the pressures of his first Olympic Games, Franzoni effectively channeled his nervous energy, influenced by the support of his family and friends. He dedicated his medal to his late teammate Matteo Franzoso, who tragically died in a training accident last year. “It was a group effort; you don’t win alone,” he stated.
Summary of the Event
| Medal | Athlete | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Gold | Franjo von Allmen | Switzerland |
| Silver | Giovanni Franzoni | Italy |
| Bronze | Dominik Paris | Italy |
As the celebrations continued, the achievements of both Paris and Franzoni highlighted Italy’s strong presence in Alpine skiing at the Olympics. Fans waving Italian flags imbued the event with excitement, marking a memorable day for Italian sports.
