2026/27 Alpine Skiing World Cup Schedule: Key Dates, Mikaela Shiffrin’s Plan & Tour de Ski France Debut
- The 2026–27 FIS Alpine Ski World Cup calendar has been officially unveiled, marking a pivotal moment for the sport as it prepares for a season featuring expanded North...
- Among the most significant developments is the confirmation of Crans-Montana, Switzerland, as the host for the 49th Alpine World Ski Championships, scheduled from February 1 to 14, 2027.
- The calendar also highlights Mikaela Shiffrin’s provisional schedule, which will see her competing in a mix of technical and speed events across North America and Europe.
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The 2026–27 FIS Alpine Ski World Cup calendar has been officially unveiled, marking a pivotal moment for the sport as it prepares for a season featuring expanded North American representation, the return of iconic venues, and a historic French debut for the Tour de Ski. The provisional schedule, released by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS), includes 43 races for men across 21 venues and 40 races for women across 20 venues, with a renewed emphasis on balancing speed and technical disciplines.
Among the most significant developments is the confirmation of Crans-Montana, Switzerland, as the host for the 49th Alpine World Ski Championships, scheduled from February 1 to 14, 2027. This will mark the second time the resort has hosted the championships, following its first appearance in 1987. The event will coincide with the return of several classic races, including the Sun Valley World Cup Finals, which will conclude the season on March 25, 2027.
The calendar also highlights Mikaela Shiffrin’s provisional schedule, which will see her competing in a mix of technical and speed events across North America and Europe. Shiffrin, the reigning Olympic gold medalist and World Cup champion, is expected to be a focal point of the season, particularly as the FIS continues its push to diversify the sport’s global footprint. The provisional schedule includes races in Killington, Vermont, which is making its return to the World Cup after a three-year absence, and Sölden, Austria, where the season will kick off on October 24, 2026.
A notable addition to the calendar is the Tour de Ski’s inaugural French stop, further expanding the event’s international appeal. The Tour de Ski, known for its grueling cross-country format, will now include a stage in France, adding a new dimension to the Alpine World Cup’s broader winter sports ecosystem.
The FIS has emphasized a balanced approach to the 2026–27 season, ensuring that both speed disciplines (downhill, super-G) and technical events (slalom, giant slalom) receive equal attention. This strategy aligns with the federation’s long-term goal of maintaining broad spectator and participant interest across all Alpine skiing disciplines.
Key Dates and Venues
The season will begin in Sölden, Austria, on October 24, 2026, with the Giant Slalom, followed by a series of races in Europe and North America. Highlights include:
- October 24, 2026: Season opener in Sölden, Austria (Giant Slalom)
- February 1–14, 2027: 49th Alpine World Ski Championships in Crans-Montana, Switzerland
- March 25, 2027: World Cup Finals in Sun Valley, USA
- Killington, Vermont: Returning to the World Cup after a three-year hiatus
- Tour de Ski: French debut included in the 2026–27 schedule
Competitive Implications
The expanded calendar and new venues present both challenges and opportunities for athletes. For Shiffrin, the inclusion of Killington and Sun Valley—both known for their competitive conditions—will test her adaptability across varying terrain. Meanwhile, the return of Crans-Montana to the World Championships underscores Switzerland’s enduring role as a cornerstone of Alpine skiing.
The FIS’s decision to balance speed and technical events reflects a broader trend in winter sports, where organizers seek to broaden appeal while maintaining the integrity of each discipline. This approach is particularly relevant as the sport navigates the transition toward the 2026 Winter Olympics, where Alpine skiing will remain a centerpiece.
What’s Next
While the provisional calendar is now public, final confirmations for all venues and dates are expected in the coming months. Athletes, coaches, and fans will closely monitor updates, particularly regarding the Tour de Ski’s French stage and any additional adjustments to the North American race schedule.
The 2026–27 season promises to be one of the most dynamic in recent memory, with a blend of tradition and innovation shaping the future of Alpine skiing.