What a Day for Swiss Ski!
Franjo von Allmen creates a sensation and crowns himself the new downhill world champion! The 23-year-old Swiss sets himself apart from the competition in Saalbach-Hinterglemm and secures the gold medal ahead of Austrian local hero Vincent Kriechmayr and his fellow countryman Alexis Monney.
From the construction site to the podium
Not long ago, a professional career in skiing seemed a distant dream for von Allmen. After the sudden death of his father, the young Bernese Oberlander lacked the funds for the expensive sport and he began an apprenticeship as a carpenter.
Yet, the dream of the world’s top remained alive. With a crowdfunding campaign, he raised 16,000 francs and financed another season, which ultimately brought him into the national team.
Now, he stands at the top of the ski world. “Downhill world champion – it sounds incredible!” said a beaming von Allmen after his triumph.
“It’s hard to grasp what’s just hitting me. But also congratulations to the Austrians. After the super-G, I thought I had nothing more to lose, so I just went all out.”
Von Allmen pulled off a nearly perfect run. After a cautious start, he gained more and more speed on the second half of the course, navigated the bumps with elegance and took risks. The reward: a quarter of a second lead over the runner-up, Kriechmayr.
Marco Odermatt, the defending champion and favorite, finished fifth. “Definitely a disappointment” said the World Cup dominator. However, for Swiss Ski, it was still a day to celebrate: four Swiss skiers finished in the top ten.
Feeling the joy in Saalbach
It’s clear that this victory will be celebrated in style. “I think we’ll head to the ‘Bode’ today” von Allmen joked.
Even bronze medalist Monney was in high spirits: “Franjo and I are roommates. It could get dangerous.”
With this double blow, Switzerland continues its dominance in the downhill. After the rest day on Monday, the women’s team event will continue on Tuesday – and Swiss Ski will be jubilant once more. One thing is certain: this world championship win will have a long-lasting impact.