LAKE LOUISE – The world’s top downhill skiers will not descend the slopes of Lake Louise this year following FIS’s move to a European-only World Cup in 2020-21.
On Thursday (Aug 20), it was announced the North American alpine skiing portion of the upcoming season would be realigned to existing technical and speed venues in Europe in a “unified decision” due to COVID-19.
“Coming to the decision not to hold World Cup ski races in Lake Louise in 2020 was difficult, but we know it’s the right thing to do for the benefit of everyone involved,” said Brian Lynam, Race Chairman in a press release.
“We have worked hard to exhaust all possibilities and this decision did not come easily. We do wish all of the World Cup athletes and European race organizing committees a safe and successful season and we look forward to hosting our events again in 2021 at the Lake Louise Ski Resort.”
Coming to the decision not to hold the 2020 Lake Louise Audi FIS Ski World Cup was difficult, but we know it’s the right thing to do for the benefit of everyone involved. Click link in profile for will statement.… https://t.co/xQSrtFhYQ7
— Lake Louise Audi FIS Ski World Cup (@AlpineSkiWC) August 20, 2020
The decision was announced by FIS, Winterstart Events Ltd., Lake Louise Audi FIS Ski World Cup organizing committee, the Canadian Snowsports Association, U.S. Ski & Snowboard and the local organizing committees.
Winterstart Events Ltd. and the Lake Louise Audi FIS Ski World Cup organizing committee, host of the local event, called it disappointing, but health, safety and risk management were at the core of the reasoning.
“Given the unpredictability of the pandemic we want to do our part in these uncertain times to ensure the athletes have the opportunity to achieve their personal best and to keep our community safe,” a statement said.
The revised race calendars will be approved following FIS meetings from Sept. 30 to Oct. 3.