Goggia’s Injury, Intense Battles, & North American Presence
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Peter Lange
Austria, Italy, and Switzerland dominate the women’s Nations Cup downhill standings, setting the stage for an intense battle between the three nations. However, North American teams strive to leave their mark amidst the European stronghold.
Women’s 2024 Nations Cup Downhill Standings
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Italy’s Sofia Goggia led the individual season title chase until a recent injury ended her season. Her consistent podium finishes had established her as a formidable force. With Goggia sidelined, Austria’s Stephanie Venier has surged ahead among active racers. Intensifying the competition, Switzerland’s Lara Gut-Behrami trails Venier by only 52 points.
As the season progresses, the battle for the downhill crown heats up. With just 29 points between Gut-Behrami and sixth place, every race becomes vital in deciding the season’s downhill ranking.
Current top 25 World Cup Women’s 2024 DH standings
However, the focus extends beyond individual Stifel US Ski Team and Alpine Canada Alpin results. With Saalbach’s World Cup finals on the horizon, qualification becomes a primary objective for many.
North American women with 2024 downhill points
North American stars Wiles and Shiffrin lead the charge, boasting podium finishes in the 2024 World Cup downhill events. With over 1200 points across all disciplines, Shiffrin has the flexibility to compete in any event at the finals, while Wiles’ impressive season downhill total virtually guarantees her an invitation.
However, Stifel US Ski Team’s Isabella Wright’s potential also animates the finals qualification battle. Despite hurdles, Macuga, Cashman, and Mangan remain determined to rewrite their destiny and secure their spot in Saalbach.
The injured Canadian Grenier’s 3rd-place podium performance likely secured her an invitation to race in the Saalbach downhill. However, after undergoing surgery, she is sidelined for the rest of the season.
Amidst the Saalbach finals discussions, it’s important to acknowledge Independent Canadian SYNC team member Stephanie Fleckenstein. Despite encountering a season-ending injury in mid-December, undoubtedly she would be part of the finals conversation if she were still competing.
As the season approaches its climax, the pressure mounts and the quest for World Cup glory intensifies. In this thrilling pursuit, every run becomes pivotal, shaping the narrative of the world’s best on the world stage.
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