FIS World Cup At Levi, Hirscher Embraces New Chapter In Iconic Finnish Slalom Race.

After a five year break from competitive racing, Austria’s skiing legend Marcel Hirscher is making a highly anticipated return to the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup circuit at the “Levi Black” slope in Levi, Finland. Known for hosting the World Cup’s season-opening slalom races, Levi is a unique venue situated 170 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. This remote, scenic setting holds a special place in Hirscher’s heart, marking both a challenging course and a serene contrast to the usual World Cup bustle.

For Hirscher, this return to the World Cup is part of a journey he gifted himself—one not solely focused on competition, but on reconnecting with the sport he dominated for years. Reflecting on his recent race in Soelden, where he placed 23rd, Hirscher reveals that his focus has shifted. “Skiing used to be the most important thing,” he explains, “but now I appreciate the relationships, the friends, the health—things that count beyond the races.” His time away from the sport has shown him a broader picture of life, adding depth to what it means to step back on the slopes.

Unlike the crowded venues of other World Cup events, Levi offers a quieter, almost magical setting. Hirscher cherishes its unique traditions, from reindeer sightings to the family-like atmosphere rarely found in major competitions. “Racing here is a privilege,” he says, “with the northern lights, the silence, and a connection to Lapland’s local culture. It’s a different experience than anything else on the circuit, one that brings you back to the roots of skiing.”

The “Levi Black” course, a deceptively simple yet technically demanding track, is also symbolic of Hirscher’s evolving approach. No longer chasing points or records, he’s now measuring success by quality rather than quantity, focusing on deliberate, purposeful training sessions that leave room for reflection and enjoyment. The course may look easy at first glance, but its subtle demands require precision—a fitting challenge for Hirscher’s mindful return to the World Cup.

His preparation also includes innovative training at Austria’s Reiteralm, where officials have preserved last winter’s snow through sustainable methods, allowing him to train on “yesterday’s snow.” It’s a fitting symbol for Hirscher’s journey—honoring the past while embracing the new. “Training on snow preserved from last winter is a bit surreal but inspiring,” he adds, “showing us where the sport can go in terms of sustainability.”

As Hirscher heads north to this early stop in the World Cup season, he brings with him a sense of gratitude and purpose, seeing each race as a chapter in a larger story. This journey to the “Levi Black” slope is more than a race; it’s a homecoming to skiing with renewed meaning, shaped by life’s broader horizons.