Emma Aicher Triumphs in Tarvisio Super G; Lindsey Vonn Returns to Podium
Emma Aicher from Germany triumphed in the women’s Super G World Cup held in Tarvisio, Italy, on January 18, 2026. Her victory marks the second of her career in this discipline, achieved under challenging conditions with heavy fog obscuring visibility. Aicher managed the initial difficult segments of the course better than her competitors, showcasing her skill and confidence.
Race Conditions and Performance
The race featured a foggy start, limiting visibility for racers. Conditions improved slightly during runs, allowing athletes to increase their speed on the flatter sections. However, those who anticipated the changing visibility and executed their strategies effectively found success, particularly in the top parts of the course.
- 1st Place: Emma Aicher (Germany) – Time: 1:14.04
- 2nd Place: Lindsey Vonn (USA) – Time: +0.27
- 3rd Place: Ester Ledecká (Czech Republic) – Time: +0.94
- 4th Place: Romane Miradoli (France) – Time: +1.04
- 5th Place: Keely Cashman (USA) – Time: +1.11
- 6th Place: Sofia Goggia (Italy) – Time: +1.13
Aicher’s Impressive Technique
Aicher demonstrated extraordinary control through the technical sections, which proved critical for maintaining speed. As visibility improved mid-run, she capitalized on her momentum, ultimately achieving an unmatchable time. This victory underscores her emergence as a formidable contender in the World Cup circuit.
Lindsey Vonn’s Podium Return
Lindsey Vonn also delivered a noteworthy performance, securing second place, which marked her 49th Super G podium finish. Despite not matching Aicher’s speed off the top pitch, Vonn exhibited excellent technique and control throughout her run. She expressed optimism about her performance and aspirations for the Super G Globe series.
Ester Ledecká’s Strong Finish
The Czech racer, Ester Ledecká, clinched third place. After facing challenges in previous races, Ledecká showcased determination and skill, racing aggressively from start to finish. She emphasized enjoyment in her skiing, reinforcing her versatility as a competitor in both skiing and snowboarding.
North American Competitors Shine
Keely Cashman grabbed attention by finishing in fifth place, demonstrating resilience after a difficult previous outing. Her race was marked by smart line choices and consistent speed. Cashman felt her performance was a significant step forward ahead of the upcoming Olympic events.
Among other North American competitors, Valérie Grenier finished 14th, while Jackie Wiles and rookie Allison Mollin also had strong showings, finishing 19th and 20th, respectively. This group is building momentum as the World Cup season progresses.
Alice Robinson’s Crash
The race was marred by a serious crash involving New Zealand’s Alice Robinson, who entered as the overall leader. Her fall came during a jump, but she managed to walk away from the incident without serious injury. This display of resilience is a testament to her character, showcasing her readiness to return to racing.
Looking Ahead
With her sixth-place finish, Sofia Goggia now leads the Super G overall standings and will don the red leader bib in the next leg of the tour at Crans-Montana, set for January 31. The women’s World Cup will also feature a giant slalom in Kronplatz on January 20, promising further excitement in this highly competitive season.
