Steven Amiez Takes the Lead in Val-d'Isère Slalom
In a thrilling display of skill and determination, French skier Steven Amiez has taken the lead in the slalom event at Val-d'Isère, following a superb first run on December 15, 2024. Amiez, the son of Olympic vice-champion Sébastien Amiez, showcased his talent on the challenging Bellevarde face, finishing ahead of Norway's Henrik Kristoffersen and Austria's Manuel Feller by 32 and 66 hundredths of a second, respectively. This performance comes as a significant opportunity for Amiez, especially in the absence of fellow French skier Clément Noël, who had to withdraw due to injury.
Clément Noël Withdraws After Heavy Fall
Clément Noël, the reigning Olympic champion and winner of the first two slaloms of the season, suffered a severe fall during the giant slalom event on December 14. After hitting a gate and ending up in the nets, Noël was able to ski down but appeared to be in pain, particularly in his right ankle, and reported broken teeth. Following a warm-up attempt for the slalom, he decided it was too risky to compete, stating, "I can't push. I don't dare. It really hurts when I push on my leg." Noël aims to recover in time for the next World Cup slalom in Alta Badia on December 23.
The Road Ahead for Steven Amiez
With Clément Noël sidelined, Steven Amiez has a golden opportunity to secure his first World Cup podium finish. Despite his current lead, the competition remains fierce, with five skiers within a second of him before the second run, scheduled for 1 p.m. Amiez's recent performances, including a sixth place in Levi and a fourth in Gurgl, indicate he is in excellent form. The upcoming second round promises to be an exciting showdown as Amiez seeks to capitalize on his lead and navigate the tricky course successfully.
