Safety concerns in World Cup skiing have been brought to the forefront earlier than usual this year following the tragic death of Italian skier Matteo Franzoso during preseason training in Chile. This incident has reignited discussions on enhancing safety measures in the sport well before the official racing season begins. Franzoso, aged 25, is the latest in a series of young skiers who have lost their lives in training accidents over the past year. The Italian Winter Sports Federation revealed that Franzoso crashed through safety fencing at La Parva and collided with another fence outside the course, resulting in fatal cranial trauma and brain swelling.
The skiing community is mourning the loss of promising talents like Franzoso, Matilde Lorenzi, Marco Degli Uomini, and Margot Simond, who all tragically lost their lives in training incidents. Calls for improved safety protocols and training courses have been amplified following these heartbreaking events. Skiers are now required to wear protective airbag systems and cut-resistant underwear during races to minimize the risk of serious injuries. Additionally, there are proposals for the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) to play a more active role in ensuring the safety of preseason training courses, particularly in the southern hemisphere.
Italian skier Christof Innerhofer, deeply affected by Franzoso’s accident, flew back home after witnessing the aftermath of the crash. The skiing community is urging for collective action to prioritize the safety and well-being of athletes. As preparations continue for the upcoming racing season and the Milan-Cortina Olympics, the focus remains on implementing effective safety measures to prevent further tragedies on the slopes.