Mikaela Shiffrin’s Struggles and Federica Brignone’s Triumph in Sestriere Giant Slalom

Mikaela Shiffrin’s Struggles and Federica Brignone’s Triumph in Sestriere Giant Slalom

SESTRIERE, Italy — The world of alpine skiing is no stranger to drama and unexpected turns, and this weekend’s giant slalom races in Sestriere were no exception. Mikaela Shiffrin, a name synonymous with dominance in the sport, is finding her return to the slopes more challenging than anticipated. Meanwhile, Federica Brignone is proving to be a formidable force, nearly untouchable in her recent performances.

For Shiffrin, the journey back to competitive racing has been anything but smooth. In her second giant slalom race since a harrowing crash three months ago, Shiffrin did not qualify for a second run for the first time since 2012. This was a significant moment, as she placed outside the top 30, a rare occurrence for the skiing superstar.

During the first run, Shiffrin finished 2.50 seconds off the lead set by Alice Robinson. With more than 30 racers clocking faster times, Shiffrin’s day ended earlier than expected. This marked a stark contrast to her usual performances, where she often finds herself among the top contenders.

Just a day prior, Shiffrin had finished 25th in the giant slalom, which was won by Brignone. This was Shiffrin’s first giant slalom since suffering severe trauma to her oblique muscles and a deep puncture wound during a crash in Killington, Vermont, back in November. At that time, she was on the brink of achieving her 100th career win.

On the other hand, Federica Brignone is riding a wave of success. She secured back-to-back wins on home snow, just nine days after clinching gold in the giant slalom at the world championships in Saalbach, Austria. The 34-year-old Italian skier was exceptional in her second run, further extending her lead in the overall World Cup standings as she chases a second career title.

“I felt the crowd all over the slope cheering for me. It was an incredible feeling,” Brignone shared, reflecting on her 16th career win in World Cup giant slaloms. Her performance was nothing short of spectacular, finishing 0.77 seconds ahead of Lara Gut-Behrami, who now trails further in the overall standings. Alice Robinson, the worlds silver medalist, ended third, 0.79 seconds behind Brignone, yet she still leads the season-long giant slalom standings.

Shiffrin, with a record 22 career World Cup wins in giant slalom and gold medals at the 2018 Olympics and 2023 worlds, appeared cautious on Saturday. Her expression of resignation was evident as she saw her time, with the 14 previous top-ranked racers clocking between 1.4 and 2.5 seconds faster.

To put this in perspective, the last time Shiffrin completed a first run in slalom or giant slalom outside the top-30 times was in October 2012 at the season-opening GS in Soelden, Austria. Back then, a 17-year-old Shiffrin, wearing bib No. 41, had the 31st fastest time.

Saturday’s race saw Shiffrin wearing bib number 15, the highest in a World Cup giant slalom in over eight years. Interestingly, she won a race in December 2016 wearing the same number at Semmering, Austria. However, this time, the outcome was different, highlighting the challenges she faces in her comeback.

• Shiffrin’s first non-qualification for a second run since 2012
• Brignone’s back-to-back wins on home snow
• Shiffrin’s cautious return after a severe injury

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Shiffrin to see how she navigates her return to form. Meanwhile, Brignone’s stellar performances continue to captivate fans and competitors alike. The dynamic between these two athletes adds an exciting layer to the World Cup circuit, promising more thrilling races ahead.