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Successful Conclusion of the FIS–FESA Speed Academy in Sölden
Monday, April 13, 2026
The FIS–FESA Speed Academy in Söden from 07-12 April 2026 has been successfully completed, bringing together around 50 athletes and 15 coaches from across Europe and beyond. Participants represented both FESA member nations (Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Schwitzerland, Spain) and developing countries (e.g. Hungary, Lithuania, Ukraine) supported by the FIS, with athletes from a total of nine nations taking part in this high-level training initiative.
The academy featured joint training sessions with a clear focus on the alpine speed disciplines of Super-G and Downhill. Under professional conditions on a FIS-certified course, athletes were able to gain valuable experience, further develop their technical skills, and prepare for the demands of competitive speed skiing.
In close cooperation with FIS, a dedicated FIS Speed Clinic Education Program was also conducted alongside the academy, with five additional participants. This program placed a strong emphasis on safety in alpine ski racing, contributing to the ongoing development of coaching standards and athlete protection.
A special highlight of the week was an engaging evening discussion on safety, held on Wednesday. The panel featured renowned experts including Alexandra Meissnitzer (FIS and former World Champion), Osi Inglin (Coach Swiss-Ski), Hans-Peter Pilz (FIS TD Ski Austria), and Benjamin Prantner (FESA), moderated by Cornelia Blank (FIS Senior Education Manager). The discussion provided valuable insights into safety standards, course preparation, coaching, and the future of speed disciplines.
Participants highlighted the professional organization of the academy and the unique opportunity to train in speed disciplines under optimal conditions. In particular, smaller National Ski Associations benefited significantly from this initiative, gaining access to high-quality training environments that are often difficult to realize independently.
Thanks to the support of Bergbahnen Sölden, Alpina Sicherheitssysteme, LISKI, and the Skiclub Sölden, a safe and professional training setup was established on a FIS-certified course, ensuring optimal conditions for all participants.
Following the positive feedback, further Speed Academies are already being planned in continued cooperation between FESA and FIS, reinforcing the shared commitment to developing the next generation of alpine speed athletes.
