Albert Popov learned early that in skiing – just like in life – there are no easy lines. Every turn is a challenge, every gate a potential risk. But a year ago, at the legendary 3Tre race, the Bulgarian skier turned difficulty into beauty and pressure into energy. In just a few seconds of flawless technical execution on the narrow ribbon of snow that overlooks Madonna di Campiglio – the Canalone Miramonti – Popov wrote a page of history: his own, and that of an entire nation.

Encouraged by last year's success, Popov will try again on Wednesday, January 7th, 2026, when the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup 'circus' returns to Madonna di Campiglio for one of the season's most hotly anticipated events. The runs will take place at 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Tickets are available at www.3trecampiglio.it.

Behind the shy smile and determined gaze of the 28-year-old from Sofia lies a journey worth far more than a thousand trophies. In 2015, at not even eighteen, Popov survived a terrible car accident in Sölden that claimed the life of his coach and mentor, Drago Grubelnik. Amid pain and fear, a new athlete was born. From that moment on, he rebuilt himself step by step – until that unforgettable January night when he rose among the world’s greatest slalom specialists.

“It was an incredible evening – not just for me, but for all my supporters back home. I think I made the whole of Bulgaria stand up that night,” Popov recalls with emotion. At just 164 centimetres tall, he is pure talent and tenacity. His triumph at the 3Tre was more than a technical feat: it was a collective redemption. After more than forty years, Bulgaria was back on the top step of an Alpine Ski World Cup podium.

“That victory was the turning point of my career. It gave me confidence in my skiing and in everything behind each race – the training, the mindset, the preparation. The Canalone is one of my favourite courses: shorter than most, but more technical and demanding, perfectly suited to my style. And the organisers are fantastic – they always do an extraordinary job.”

What makes Popov remarkable is that, even in such an individual sport, he races not only for himself but for all those who believe that talent can shine anywhere. “Bulgaria is a small country in skiing terms, so a World Cup win has a huge impact on young athletes. I feel like an ambassador for our sport back home. If my success inspires even one kid to chase his dream, then it’s all worth it.”

On Wednesday, January 7th 2026, the Bulgarian will return to the stage that crowned him a year earlier. “It will be emotional. This time I’ll approach the 3Tre with even more confidence, because I know I can beat anyone on the Canalone Miramonti. A 3Tre champion I’d love to have dinner with? Definitely Alberto Tomba. He’s a legend of skiing – and of the 3Tre. I’m sure we’d share a few good laughs.”

And perhaps the 3Tre, celebrating thirty years since Tomba’s last triumph in 1995, will once again mark a special moment. For now, Albert Popov has filled the night of Madonna di Campiglio with his purest magic. Just watching the Bulgarian flag wave on the podium is enough to understand that some dreams – when nurtured with passion, humility, and determination – truly know no borders.