Germany’s exceptional downhill skier Thomas Dreßen ended his career with one last race in Kitzbühel and was celebrated by his ski colleagues and fans.
The Streif champion from 2018, who had to retire due to the consequences of many injuries and operations, no longer took any major risks and arrived behind.
The 30-year-old was welcomed at the finish by teammates, other racers and family members. “I wanted to enjoy the ride, that’s what I did. It wasn’t until ten meters before the finish line that I realized: That was it. I’m proud of the last ride,” he said.
Tens of thousands of supporters and celebrities like Arnold Schwarzenegger cheered on Dreßen.
Cyprien Sarrazin secured victory with a breathtaking performance. The Frenchman won by 0.91 seconds ahead of World Cup dominator Marco Odermatt from Switzerland.
Dominik Paris from South Tyrol, who was third after 40 starters, was 1.44 seconds behind Sarrazin, who also won the first downhill run in Kitzbühel on Friday. The best German was Andreas Sander (+2.54), but he didn’t make it into the top 20.