22 December 2023, Madonna di Campiglio (World Cup)
On Friday, 22 December 2023, Marco Schwarz’s long pursuit finally comes to an end — and not only his pursuit of a place on the 3Tre roll of honour. Since first stepping onto the Madonna di Campiglio podium in 2015, the 28-year-old from Villach has established himself as one of the most versatile athletes in world alpine skiing, capable of challenging for victory across every discipline and, above all, emerging as a genuine contender for the overall World Cup title.
Just a few days earlier, Marcel Hirscher had identified Schwarz as Marco Odermatt’s most dangerous rival in the race for the Crystal Globe. How that battle will unfold remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Marco Schwarz will celebrate Christmas as the overall World Cup leader.
Against the spectacular backdrop of a vibrant Madonna di Campiglio, with 15,200 spectators packing the Canalone Miramonti, Schwarz builds his victory with a superb second run. Sixth after the opening run, exactly half a second behind Clément Noël, the Austrian produces a flawless performance on the rhythmic yet demanding course set by Swiss coach Joris.
Schwarz finds the perfect line through the final gates to secure victory and hold off a remarkable charge from Dave Ryding. The 37-year-old Briton climbs from 15th after the first run to third place, 0.39 seconds behind, earning his first-ever podium in Madonna di Campiglio.
Results:
Slalom
1. Marco Schwarz (AUT)
2. Clément Noël (FRA)
3. Dave Ryding (GBR)
