As World Cup speed racing concluded 2024 in Bormio, Italy, the series prepares to open the new year on Italian snow with Madonna di Campiglio's FIS Ski World Cup Night Slalom, set for Wednesday, January 8, featuring runs at 17:45 and 20:45 on the Canalone Miramonti.

Last year, Madonna di Campiglio and Bormio - in reverse chronology – were key crossroads for Marco Schwarz’s season. On December 22, 2023, the Austrian all-rounder moved atop the overall World Cup classification by winning the 70th 3Tre. Just six days later, defending that lead in Bormio's downhill, a crash tore his right knee's ACL and meniscus. Season over, Crystal Globe dreams shattered.

Nearly a year later, following autumn disc herniation surgery, Schwarz has returned to competition. He contested the giant slalom and slalom events in Val d'Isère and Alta Badia, showing promising sequences though understandably lacking his peak consistency.

"I'm quite pleased with my racing return, the sensations felt good," said the 29-year-old from Carinthia, Austria. "Val d'Isère brought some nerves but went well overall, especially first run. Given limited training time, I'm satisfied with my racing form. I feel good and aim to train my way back to top form as soon as possible."

Schwarz vividly recalls last year's emotional 3Tre triumph at Madonna di Campiglio, a venue that's brought consistent success. Here he claimed his first career podium in 2015 and second place in 2018. "Last year's Madonna victory meant everything," said the 2021 slalom World Cup champion. "I was deep into an intense race schedule. While every ski victory is special, Campiglio holds unique meaning for me. The crowd is incredible, and I love this course - both the flats and steeps invite attacking. The Canalone Miramonti really suits my style."

Competition for the season's first Night Race runs deep. Slalom points leader Henrik Kristoffersen chases a fourth Canalone Miramonti win, joined by Norwegian teammates McGrath, Steen Olsen and Alta Badia winner Haugan. Switzerland brings Meillard, Nef and Yule, while France's Noël enters with two season wins. Sweden's Jakobsen, Brazil's Braathen Pinheiro and Italy's Vinatzer round out the favorites. Schwarz faces them after extended competitive absence. "Summer proved brutal - many ups and downs. Post-knee injury preparation went well until the disc herniation required another fortunately successful surgery."

"My goal for Madonna is enjoying good racing. The Christmas break provided valuable training time to prepare for battling up front again. Can't wait for 3Tre," Schwarz concluded.

Meantime, the International Ski Federation (FIS) carried out its snow control inspection of the Canalone Miramonti slope on Monday morning, December 30. Green light and full-go for 3Tre, thanks to the preparation works by Course Director Adriano Alimonta's technical team in collaboration with Funivie Madonna di Campiglio.

The 71st 3Tre opens Tuesday, January 7, with 18:00 public bib draw in Sissi Square, preceded by the "Valanga Azzurra" documentary celebrating Italy's legendary 1970s team. Special guest Ingemar Stenmark returns to commemorate 50 years since his first Madonna di Campiglio and World Cup triumph. The World Cup Night Race follows January 8, with runs at 17:45 and 20:45 CET.