Tue Oct 28 16:41:39 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article rewrite of the provided text:

Summary:

A debate about the safety of ski training courses has reignited following the death of Italian skier Matteo Franzoso during preseason training. Top skiers like Mikaela Shiffrin and Alexis Pinturault have voiced concerns about the inadequate safety measures on training courses compared to race courses, citing financial constraints as a key factor. The issue is magnified by the inherent dangers of the sport, and the pressure to train despite those risks. The Italian Winter Sports Federation and FIS are now under pressure to improve safety standards, with discussions focusing on increased netting, better course maintenance, and more medical support. However, implementing such changes requires significant investment and coordination, leaving many to question who will ultimately take responsibility.

News Article:

Olympic Season Opens Amidst Renewed Concerns Over Ski Training Safety

As the Olympic season kicks off just months before the Milan Cortina Games, a somber debate has resurfaced regarding the safety of ski training courses. The issue was brought into sharp focus following the tragic death of Italian skier Matteo Franzoso during preseason training in Chile.

Franzoso’s death, coupled with similar incidents involving other young skiers, has prompted leading athletes like Mikaela Shiffrin and Alexis Pinturault to speak out about the dangers inherent in training environments. Shiffrin, recovering from her own serious injury, highlighted the lack of safety measures on many training courses, noting the absence of adequate netting, course maintenance, and medical support often present during race days.

“We are training in many places where it’s not really safe, yes, that’s 100 percent sure,” Pinturault said.

The financial disparity between training and race courses is a significant contributing factor. While race courses boast robust safety infrastructure, training venues often operate with smaller budgets and fewer resources.

The Italian Winter Sports Federation has called on the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) to establish dedicated training courses with race-level safety standards. FIS President Johan Eliasch stated that the organization is working to improve safety measures, including increased netting, better course preparation, and enhanced medical support. However, implementing these changes across various training sites presents a considerable financial challenge, prompting questions about who will ultimately bear the cost.

Some, like Austrian coach Roland Assinger, acknowledge the difficulties in eliminating all risk, stating, “A risk will always remain, but we coaches try to minimise it.” He pointed out the financial infeasibility of replicating World Cup safety standards everywhere.

The debate is intensifying as the ski season gets underway, with athletes and officials grappling with the need to balance performance with safety. The upcoming Olympics provide a critical opportunity to address these concerns and ensure a safer future for all skiers.

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