by InTrieste
The pristine slopes of Friuli Venezia Giulia are set to take center stage once again as the region prepares to host the finals of the Paralympic Skiing World Cup’s speed disciplines. Organized by the Pordenone Ski Club, the international competition will unfold in Sella Nevea from March 10 to 16, bringing together 57 athletes from 21 nations to compete in downhill and super-G events on the renowned Canin slope.
“This event underscores our region’s reputation as a premier destination for international sporting competitions,” said Sergio Emidio Bini, Friuli Venezia Giulia’s Regional Councillor for Tourism and Productive Activities, during a press conference in Trieste on Thursday. “With the Paralympic Skiing World Cup, we reaffirm our commitment to sports, inclusivity, and territorial promotion. The region is investing significantly to enhance its global visibility, and events of this caliber play a crucial role in achieving that goal.”
Bini highlighted the region’s ability to foster effective collaboration among local entities, a key factor in bringing large-scale international events to Friuli Venezia Giulia. He also noted that the World Cup finals come amid a record-breaking ski season for the region, with Sella Nevea alone registering more than 45,000 visitors since the start of winter—an increase of 9.6% compared to the same period last year.
Joining Bini at the press conference were Luigi Porracin, sports director of the Pordenone Ski Club, and Paolo Tavian, president of the Italian Federation of Paralympic Winter Sports, who echoed the importance of the event in boosting the region’s sporting profile.
The competition schedule includes official training runs on March 10 and 11, followed by races on March 12, 13, 15, and 16. In addition to the high-stakes competition, the event will offer participants a cultural excursion on March 14—a rest day—featuring a guided tour of the historic Cave del Predil mines. The visit will be attended by former Italian Alpine ski racer Lucia Mazzotti and Olympic canoeing champion Daniele Molmenti, who won gold in the K1 slalom at the 2012 London Games.
With an influx of elite athletes and an emphasis on accessibility and inclusion, the upcoming World Cup finals in Sella Nevea not only promise thrilling competition but also reinforce Friuli Venezia Giulia’s growing prominence on the global sports stage.
