The slope of the Zermatt-Cervinia men's World Cup downhill races was built outside the boundaries of the ski area.
This was the conclusion of the Valais Cantonal Construction Commission (CCC), which prohibited the use of the encroached space. The race can now be held as planned.
Only safety nets 'can exceptionally be tolerated' in this area for the occasion, writes the CCC. This is 'applying the principle of proportionality and considering the temporary nature of the event'.
After having had to postpone its trip a first time, the CCC was able to travel to the Teodulo glacier in Zermatt to ascertain the facts, accompanied by an engineering and surveying firm. The authority pointed out that the slope 'initially proposed by the organisers was entirely within the ski area'. On site, however, the groomed slope was found to be too wide along the start area of the men's race. ...