“Skiers ready – attention!” This distinctive call is echoing once again across the race and training grounds at Tennladen in Niederau. It is the acoustic signal for absolute focus – and at the same time the countdown to a major Olympic appearance.

The Austrian Ski Cross Olympic team is putting the final polish on its preparations in the Hochtal Wildschönau ahead of the competitions on 20 and 21 February 2026 at the Winter Olympic Games in Livigno. Led by head coach Lukas Inselsbacher, a strong line-up is heading to the start: three women and four men form the red-white-red squad competing for medals.

A full-scale start ramp has been constructed at the race and training centre in Niederau, precisely tailored to the demands of the Olympic course in Livigno. In ski cross, the start often determines victory or defeat. Explosive power, perfect timing and uncompromising line choice are decisive in those first crucial seconds.

Conditions in Niederau could hardly be better: immaculate piste conditions, optimal training facilities and full support from the Wildschönau mountain lift company.

One of the key figures behind the development of this training centre over many years is ÖSV coach Günther Gerhard. With visible pride, he reflects on the evolution of the facility and understands the value of this professional infrastructure for the national team.

Markus Dummer, Operations Manager of the mountain lifts, is equally pleased with the close cooperation. “It is impressive to witness the level of sporting excellence currently on display here. For us, it is an honour to be part of these Olympic preparations.”

There is little to add to the praise from coaches and athletes alike – once again, the Hochtal Wildschönau presents itself as an ideal training base for international elite sport.

With their best wishes for successful and injury-free races, the Wildschönau mountain lift company bids the Olympic athletes farewell as they head to Livigno – carrying with them the certainty that the Olympic dream has, in part, been finely honed in the Wildschönau.

Toni Silberberger