The 3Tre Night Slalom stands unique in its allure - and its cruelty. The Canalone Miramonti, bathed in floodlights and crowd energy, creates the perfect stage for skiing's elite. Yet it demands perfection, where triumph and heartbreak balance on split seconds.

Clément Noël and Lucas Pinheiro Braathen know this reality intimately through recent near-misses. Both eye the 71st 3Tre as their redemption opportunity. This January 8 Audi FIS World Cup Night Slalom (17:45 and 20:45) finds them among the favorites. Noël claimed second last year after leading, mirroring his 2021 final-gate heartbreak. Braathen dominated 2022's first run before errors cost him the podium.

"I love this venue, even if the feeling hasn't been mutual," admits 27-year-old Noël. "2021's final-gate exit while leading, then last year's second place - I can't complain, but I know there's more speed in me." Recent victories at Levi and Gurgl support his confidence.

Now racing for Brazil, Braathen returns with added maturity after 2022's fourth place. "That mistake taught me where not to push. The experience serves me well now," he notes.

For Braathen, victory in Madonna would taste sweeter: "Italian fans show unmatched passion, and I love the culture. The 3Tre suits my explosive style - coming from Brazilian football background helps on short, intense courses like Canalone Miramonti. I can attack every gate."

Wednesday's showdown promises drama as challengers target defending champion Marco Schwarz's crown. The Canalone Miramonti rewards nothing less than perfection - the right mix of courage and precision can transform a winter night into skiing legend.

The 71st 3Tre opens Tuesday, January 7, with the "Valanga Azzurra" documentary preceding 18:30 public bib draw in Sissi Square. Special guest Ingemar Stenmark returns to commemorate 50 years since his first World Cup victory in Madonna. Racing follows January 8, with runs at 17:45 and 20:45 (CET).