Swiss skier slams VIPs for ignoring Kitzbühel’s legendary downhill race
The Hahnenkamm races in Kitzbühel once again attracted huge crowds this January. Fans filled the grandstands during training and the main event. But not everyone shared the same enthusiasm—Swiss skier Justin Murisier criticised VIP guests for their lack of interest in the competition itself.
The annual FIS Alpine Ski World Cup in Kitzbühel, Austria, includes an exclusive hospitality area at the start house. Organised by Red Bull, this VIP zone lets guests observe racers up close before they begin their runs. The luxury setup is a long-standing tradition at the event.
Murisier, who finished 44th in the downhill event, spoke out against the atmosphere inside the Start-Haus. He claimed that many VIP attendees seemed more focused on socialising than on the race. His comments highlighted a contrast between the lively crowds in the stands and the detached mood among some privileged spectators. Despite the criticism, the races remained a major draw. Thousands of fans turned out to watch the action, filling the grandstands throughout the weekend.
The event's popularity with the public did not go unnoticed, as spectators packed the venue for both training and the main event. Murisier's remarks, however, put a spotlight on the behaviour of VIP guests in the Red Bull-hosted area. The organiser has yet to respond to the skier's comments.
