Sports show expert Felix Neureuther is critical of the upcoming airbag requirement in the speed disciplines of the Alpine World Cup.
“I would have felt extremely restricted in my freedom of movement,” said the 39-year-old in the sports show on the sidelines of the Super-G in Bormio. “What is primarily protected by this airbag is the upper body area”, explained Neureuther. However, there are hardly any injuries in alpine skiing. The back is also already protected by the back protector.
Mandatory from 2024/25
For the 2024/2025 season, the world association Fis will make wearing a special airbag under the ski suit mandatory for women and men in super-G and downhill.
Neureuther advocates uniform suits
He believes that money also plays a role in the Fis’ decision, said Neureuther. The industry benefits from airbag production. “Doing something for the safety of the athletes is extremely important”said Neureuther.
In his opinion, a suit that is padded in certain places and possibly restricts air permeability in order to slow down the pace would be a good idea “Simpler and better solution approach.” The future requirement for airbags is also being discussed controversially among active drivers.