Women's World Cup Downhill and Super-G Heads to Andorra's Àliga Slope

The Àliga slope at El Tarter in Grandvalira will host the women's World Cup from February 27 to March 1, featuring a downhill on Friday February 27 followed by two super-G events on Saturday February 28 and Sunday March 1, both starting at 10.15am. Official downhill training sessions are scheduled for February 25 and 26.

American Lindsey Vonn, the 41-year-old champion returning strongly this season, is expected to headline the 60 athletes from 16 to 19 countries. Mikaela Shiffrin's participation remains unconfirmed as she has yet to finalise her schedule.

Andorran skiers Cande Moreno and Jordina Caminal arrive in strong form after solid results in the World Cup and Europa Cup, with hopes of scoring points at home and building toward top-30 consistency. Carles Visa, manager of the Andorran Ski Federation, called their presence "a satisfaction built with constancy and dedication," adding that they serve as "a mirror for young people" after years of effort to reach this level.

Organisers hailed the event's broader impact. David Hidalgo, director general of the 2026 World Cup organising committee, praised the Àliga slope for its speed, tension, and risk, noting recent safety upgrades like reinforced nets and windbreaks to ensure top conditions. He emphasised the value of local stars alongside big names like Vonn for media appeal.

Xavier Cornella, managing director of Creand Crèdit Andorrà, described Andorra as "no longer a surprise on the FIS calendar, but a certainty." Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Mònica Bonell highlighted its role in promoting women's sport, with a home contingent eyeing future Olympic spots. Canillo's first consul, Jordi Alcobé, said cultural elements and local groups would feature at events like bib presentations.

The sixth World Cup at Soldeu El Tarter—and fourth on Àliga—follows editions in 2012, 2016, 2019, 2023, and 2024. Around 170 volunteers will support operations, with 100 on the slope and 70 handling access and accreditations. Tickets cost €10, with 25% of proceeds to the ATIDA transplant and donor association.