Petra Vlhová returns to World Cup competition

Slovak skier Petra Vlhová is set to return to World Cup competition this weekend in Sölden, Austria. This marks her comeback following an injury sustained during domestic races in Jasná in January 2024.

Vlhová plans to compete in a full program of slalom and giant slalom events. Her former coach, Livio Magoni, expressed confidence in her readiness, noting that she has been training without major issues for a year and has had ample preparation time during the Olympic period. Magoni suggested she is capable of reaching the podium in giant slalom and winning in slalom.

The upcoming season also sees shifts in the competitive landscape. German skier Emma Aicher, a contender for the overall title, noted that Mikaela Shiffrin’s decision to focus more on super-G and giant slalom rather than a full slalom schedule could open opportunities for other competitors. Aicher aims to compete across all disciplines to pursue the overall title.