FIS Chief Mens Race Director Steps Down on Eve of New Season
9th October 2026
Markus Waldner has informed the International Ski & Snowboard Federation that he will not be at the helm for the men’s events this season. The first race is in Soelden later this month. NEW
Waldner says he will support the transition period of his successor throughout the 2026/27 Alpine season as the two sides discuss options for him to take on new responsibilities within FIS.
The job involves supervising course preparation, race postponements and safety decisions.
“This is not a decision that I take lightly,” said 63 year old Markus Waldner.
“Being in charge of Alpine Skiing at the highest level is a privilege, but it is also a position that entails an incredible amount of pressure.
“Through the years, as FIS and the sport have changed and grown, this pressure has been accumulating, to the point that now I feel like I would not have the energy and the mindset to go through another full season as I would have liked to.”
The announcement comes just over two weeks before the men’s 2026–27 World Cup is scheduled to be held in Soelden in Austria on 25th October.
The chief race director is responsible for the men’s World Cup and for the men’s Alpine events at the Winter Olympics and FIS World Championships.
FIS has started the process of recruiting a replacement for Waldner and will provide updates shortly.
During the first part of the Audi FIS World Cup season, Peter Gerdol, Chief Race Director Alpine Women, will oversee competitions for both genders.
FIS has paid tribute to Waldner.
“For the last 12 years in this role, Markus has been a true reference point for Alpine Skiing and FIS’ strong presence on the ground. This carries an immeasurable value,” said FIS Alpine Director, Janne Leskinen.
“While his knowledge and expertise will certainly be missed, I am happy that Markus will stay on our side for the next steps of this transition and, I hope, with a new role beyond that.”
FIS has already started the process of recruiting a replacement for Waldner and says it will provide updates in this regard soon.
During the first part of the Audi FIS World Cup season, Peter Gerdol, Chief Race Director Alpine Women, will oversee competitions for both genders.
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