OUR HISTORY
The Beginning of a Story
Whereas the ski season had traditionally ended in April with the Grand Prix du Printemps, Charles Diebold made a bold move by launching the Critérium de la Première Neige in December 1955, effectively opening the winter ski season. His goal was to establish Val d’Isère as an internationally renowned ski destination.
The Rise of French Skiing
Already renowned for its prestige, the Critérium de la Première Neige joined the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup circuit in 1968. At the same time, the French Alpine ski team was emerging as a dominant force on the international stage, collecting Olympic medals and World Championship titles. Jean-Claude Killy, the sport’s most iconic figure, won three Olympic gold medals in the downhill, giant slalom, and slalom, cementing his place as a skiing legend. Driven by Killy’s global fame and extensive media coverage in France, the Critérium gained international recognition, attracting the world’s top European and North American ski teams.
A Historic Turning Point
In December 1981, Jean-Claude Killy and Michel Barnier put forward a bold vision: to bring the Winter Olympic Games to the Savoie region. Driven by their ambition, they joined forces, established a bid committee, and rallied the region behind their dream. Their efforts paid off when Albertville was awarded the 1992 Winter Olympic Games, with events taking place across several Savoie resorts, including Val d’Isère. In Val d’Isère, the legendary Face de Bellevarde course was specially developed to host the men’s downhill and giant slalom events. Its Olympic legacy further enhanced the international prestige of the Critérium de la Première Neige.
Legacy and Tradition
Today, the Critérium de la Première Neige is far more than just a ski race. It has become a true tradition, embodying Val d’Isère’s enduring passion and commitment to alpine skiing. Over the years, many of the sport’s greatest champions have left their mark on the event, which continues to attract the world’s finest skiers.
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