Sölden, Austria, has officially passed snow control and is ready to host the opening races of the 2026/27 Audi FIS Ski World Cup season on October 24th and 25th. The successful inspection clears the way for the traditional season-opening weekend, when the world’s best alpine skiers gather on the Rettenbach Glacier for two giant slalom races.
Snow control is an important step in the lead-up to World Cup events, particularly early in the season when warm temperatures and limited natural snowfall can threaten race schedules. Sölden’s approval means organizers can move forward with preparations for one of the most anticipated weekends on the alpine skiing calendar.
What Is Snow Control?
Snow control is an inspection conducted by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) to determine whether a race course has enough snow to host competition safely. The process helps ensure that athletes have suitable conditions before teams, officials, broadcasters, and spectators arrive at the venue.
For technical alpine skiing events, including giant slalom and slalom, snow control typically takes place seven days before the official arrival day. Speed events such as downhill and super-G generally undergo inspections 10 days before the official arrival day.
During an alpine skiing inspection, a designated snow controller examines the course and measures snow depth at different points. If sufficient snow covers the entire course, preparations can proceed, including moving snow where needed and injecting water into the snowpack to create a harder, more durable racing surface.
A positive snow control does not mean the course is completely finished. Instead, it confirms that organizers have the necessary conditions to continue preparing for competition.
Sölden Opens Another World Cup Season
Sölden’s successful inspection is particularly significant because the resort hosts the first races of the new World Cup season before most European ski areas have opened for winter. The glacier venue provides an opportunity to begin racing in October, although early-season conditions can make snow preparation challenging.
When snow conditions are inadequate, organizers may have to cancel races rather than risk athlete safety. In alpine skiing, postponements can also be difficult because of television commitments, team travel arrangements, and the tightly scheduled World Cup calendar.