Pinturault perfect in Adelboden Giant Slalom

Alexis Pinturault was in a class of his own in today’s men’s Audi FIS World Cup giant slalom in Adelboden (SUI). The Frenchman turned in the fastest times of both the first and second run and earned the victory with a commanding 1.04-second advantage.

It was the second giant slalom victory for Pinturault in Adelboden, his first coming four years ago. It was also his second giant slalom win in a row after he picked up right where he left off before the holiday break after also dominating in Alta Badia.

Conditions were ideal for the racers today in Adelboden with cloudless blue skies and freezing temperatures, setting up the optimal giant slalom course.

Second place went to Croatian Filip Zubcic, who, after finishing third in the first run, completed a near-flawless second run to move up a spot in the standings.

Third place was claimed by Marco Odermatt, who ended Switzerland’s 13-year giant slalom podium drought in Adelboden. Expectations were high for the current giant slalom standings leader, and the 23-year-old delivered giving the Alpine nation reason to celebrate.

Swiss fans could also boast about a strong overall team performance with Justin Murisier and Loic Meillard finishing in fifth and sixth, respectively.

The win by Pinturault pulls him to within 10 points of Odermatt in the season giant slalom standings. Odermatt has 350 points, while Pinturault is nipping at his heels with 340 points.

The athletes will have a quick turnaround to recover from today’s race as a second giant slalom is scheduled for tomorrow, with similar conditions forecast. It is the first time in Adelboden’s history that it will host back-to-back giant slaloms.