SAALBACH-HINTERGLEMM, Austria — Skiing enthusiasts eagerly anticipated the possibility of seeing icons Mikaela Shiffrin and Lindsey Vonn join forces at the Alpine World Championships. However, Shiffrin has announced her decision to focus on her individual recovery, opting out of the team combined event.
After suffering a significant injury, a deep puncture wound, Shiffrin is dedicating more time to train and recuperate before returning to peak performance. Although recently placing 10th in a slalom event in Courchevel, France, she is committed to a gradual recovery strategy. Her focus remains on the upcoming giant slalom and slalom races, foregoing participation in the scheduled team combined event.
This decision has reshaped the lineup possibilities for the women's team combined event, set for next Tuesday, with races for individual giant slalom and slalom following closely. Teams in this event traditionally consist of one skier taking on the downhill course and another the slalom, with added times determining winners.
Lindsey Vonn, who returned to competitive skiing at the age of 40 after a hiatus lasting almost six years, had expressed interest in pairing with Shiffrin, creating a dream team with a staggering combined 181 World Cup victories. It would be one of the coolest things in ski racing, Vonn remarked, highlighting the potential of such a powerhouse duo.
Despite Shiffrin's absence, Vonn has other thrilling prospects. She might compete alongside Paula Moltzan, a fellow skier who also hails from Buck Hill, Minnesota, and who grew up idolizing Vonn. Reflecting on the chance to race with Moltzan, Vonn expressed, That would be really cool to race with her. However, she's willing to team with any teammate available as she readies for the world championships, where she plans to compete in the super-G and downhill events.
Looking ahead, Vonn hinted at the possibility of teaming up with Shiffrin at the Milan-Cortina Olympics scheduled for 2026, one of her goals upon returning to competitive sports. It seems their paths may yet cross in future events, as February 6, 2026, draws closer — marking the opening of the games.
With Vonn's primary focus set on Cortina 2026 and the continuation of her comeback journey, her participation in major events adds an exciting dimension to women's skiing. Her experience and passion bring dimension to this year's championships, setting the stage for what could be an enthralling competition.
Although fans will miss seeing Shiffrin and Vonn team up this year, the thought of these two legendary athletes joining forces at future international stages keeps the excitement alive for the skiing community.
