Brignone Returns to the Slopes: Ski World Cup Races This Week in Sestriere and TV Schedule Unveiled

The alpine ski world turns its attention once again to the iconic slopes of Sestriere, Italy, as the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup resumes this week with a highly anticipated series of races. With the season heating up, the spotlight is firmly on Italy’s Federica Brignone, who is looking to reignite her campaign and challenge for top honors in front of a home crowd.

Sestriere, a historic venue in the World Cup circuit nestled in the Italian Alps, is set to host both the women’s Giant Slalom and Slalom events over the weekend. This marks a crucial phase in the season as athletes begin to jostle for position in the overall standings and seek momentum heading into the second half of the competition year.

Brignone’s Battle for Glory

Federica Brignone, Italy’s most decorated female skier, returns to action with high expectations. After a solid start to the season, Brignone has had flashes of brilliance but has also faced stiff competition from rivals such as Mikaela Shiffrin, Petra Vlhová, and Lara Gut-Behrami. The Sestriere races provide her with an excellent opportunity not only to rack up crucial World Cup points but also to thrill Italian fans who will be cheering her every turn on the course she knows well.

Brignone has a rich history at Sestriere, including memorable podium finishes, and she will be hoping to use her familiarity with the slope to her advantage. Her focus will primarily be on the Giant Slalom, a discipline in which she has traditionally excelled. Yet, with the unpredictable nature of the World Cup circuit, nothing is guaranteed, and Brignone must summon her best form to fend off a stacked field of competitors.

The Race Calendar and TV Coverage

The race week begins on Saturday, with the women’s Giant Slalom, followed by the Slalom on Sunday. Both events are expected to draw large viewerships not only at the venue but also on television across Europe and beyond.

Here is the full schedule of events and where fans can tune in:

Saturday, April 26 – Women’s Giant Slalom

• 1st Run: 10:30 AM CET
• 2nd Run: 1:30 PM CET
• Live on: Rai Sport, Eurosport 1, and streaming via Discovery+ and RaiPlay

Sunday, April 27 – Women’s Slalom

• 1st Run: 10:00 AM CET
• 2nd Run: 1:00 PM CET
• Live on: Rai Sport, Eurosport 1, Discovery+, and RaiPlay

Both races will be broadcast live, with commentary, analysis, and behind-the-scenes features providing fans with comprehensive coverage of the weekend’s action.

A Pivotal Moment in the Season

As the season progresses and the battle for the Crystal Globe intensifies, the Sestriere weekend is more than just another stop on the tour. For many athletes, including Brignone, it represents a turning point. A podium finish here could shift the momentum of the season and instill confidence heading into the final stretch.

Weather conditions are expected to be favorable, with clear skies and excellent snow quality anticipated on both race days. The organizing committee has confirmed that preparations are on track and that health and safety protocols will continue to be observed to ensure a smooth and secure event for all involved.

The Road Ahead

While much of the focus will naturally fall on Brignone and her rivals, the Sestriere races are also an opportunity for emerging talents to make their mark. Rising stars like Lena Dürr and Alice Robinson have shown flashes of promise and could spring a surprise in either event.

For Italian fans, the week promises a celebration of skiing, national pride, and top-tier competition. Brignone’s pursuit of another World Cup title resumes with intensity and ambition—and what better place to chase victory than the snowy peaks of home?

As the gates open and the timer starts, all eyes will be on Sestriere. Will Federica Brignone rise to the occasion once again, or will a new name steal the headlines? One thing is certain: the world will be watching.