FIS Ski World Cup 2026 – Key Information

The history of the FIS Ski World Cup Lauberhorn (Wengen). The Lauberhorn Races are among the oldest and most prestigious ski races in the world, first held in 1930 in Wengen. It is organised as a combined race, and the event quickly gained attention internationally demanding terrain and an Alpine setting. When the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup was launched in 1967, Lauberhorn became a permanent and iconic stop on the calendar. 

Over the decades, the Lauberhorn Downhill earned legendary status as the longest downhill course in World Cup skiing, famous for sections like the Hundschopf jump and extreme top speeds. The downhill course is the longest in the world; its length of over 4.4 km (2.7 mi) results in run times of two and a half minutes (about 30–45 seconds longer than standard downhill races); top speeds approach 160 km/h (100 mph) on its Haneggschuss, the highest speeds on the World Cup circuit.

The races in Wengen in the Bernese Oberland are held in mid-January, usually the week before the Hahnenkamm, in Kitzbühel, Austria, another classic downhill race run since the early 1930s.

Generic Question Asked:

Q1. What is the FIS Ski World Cup Lauberhorn Wengen?

The FIS Ski World Cup Lauberhorn Wengen is a major men’s alpine skiing event on the FIS World Cup circuit. The world’s best skiers compete in speed and technical races every January.

Q2. Where is the Lauberhorn race held?

The races are held on the Lauberhorn mountain, above the village of Wengen.

Q3. When is the Lauberhorn 2026 ski race?

The Lauberhorn World Cup 2026 is expected to take place January 16–18, 2026, based on the event’s traditional mid-January schedule. The official dates will be confirmed by the International Ski Federation (FIS) in summer 2025. FIS Calendar

Q4. Who organises this event?

The FIS Ski World Cup Lauberhorn Wengen 2026 event, like all World Cup races, is organised under the umbrella of the International Ski Federation (FIS). Local Swiss organisers manage logistics and course preparation.

Q5. What does FIS stand for in skiing?

The International Ski Federation (FIS) is the governing body for international skiing and snowboarding, founded in 1924 during the first Olympic Games in Chamonix, France.

Q6.How to qualify for the FIS World Cup?

To qualify for the FIS World Cup, a skier should earn enough FIS points to compete in recognised FIS races and achieve the minimum points criteria set by FIS. They must also be selected by their national ski federation, which enters them into World Cup events based on rankings and quotas.

Q7.Who is the CEO of FIS?

The CEO of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) is Michel Vion. He serves as Secretary General, a role that functions as the chief executive, overseeing daily operations and global ski and snowboard competitions.

Q8. How do I know which type of skiing I should choose?

The right ski type depends on your skill level, fitness, speed preference, and interest. If you enjoy speed, you should choose alpine skiing; if you like endurance, then go for cross-country; if you enjoy tricks, freestyle skiing is best, and if you don't want to ski, then go for snowboarding.

Q9. How do I get tickets for Lauberhorn 2026?

You can purchase tickets through:

1. Official site: www.lauberhorn.ch/en/tickets

2. Authorised tour operators (often include train + hotel + tickets)

3. On-site (limited availability; not recommended for popular zones)

Most viewing areas are free, but grandstands and VIP zones require paid tickets.

Q10. What races are included in Lauberhorn Wengen?

The traditional Lauberhorn Wengen ski race weekend features three main Alpine Ski World Cup events: a Super-G on Friday, the famous and challenging Downhill on Saturday, and a technical Slalom on Sunday, making it a classic weekend with speed and skill tests. 

Q11. Why is the Lauberhorn downhill so famous?

The Lauberhorn downhill is famous for being the longest World Cup downhill course, blending extreme speeds (over 160 km/h) and breathtaking scenery.

Q12. How fast do skiers go on Lauberhorn?

Skiers reach top speeds exceeding 160 km/h (100 mph), especially on the fast Haneggschuss straight, with the record set by Johan Clarey at 161.9 km/h (100.6 mph)

Q13. Is the Lauberhorn course dangerous?

Yes, the Lauberhorn course is considered one of the most demanding and dangerous on the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup circuit for professional racers. Its extreme length, high speeds, and technically challenging sections combine to push athletes to their absolute limits. 

Q14. What is the Hundschopf jump?

The Hundschopf jump is a legendary, extremely steep, and narrow cliff jump on the Lauberhorn downhill ski race course in Wengen, Switzerland.

Q15. When did the Lauberhorn races begin?

The Lauberhorn races in Wengen, Switzerland, began in 1930, organised by Ernst Gertsch as one of the world's first international downhill ski competitions, featuring both Downhill and Slalom events from the start. 

Q16. Who competes in Lauberhorn Wengen?

The top male alpine skiers from all around the world. Only qualified World Cup athletes are allowed to race.

Q17. Which countries participate in the FIS Ski World Cup?

Many countries participate in the FIS Ski World Cup, with top nations consistently including Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Italy, the USA, France, Germany, Sweden, Canada, and Slovenia, alongside others like Croatia, Czechia, Poland, and even countries from Asia and South America for specific events.

Q18. Are Lauberhorn 2026 tickets on sale yet?

As of December 2025, tickets for Lauberhorn 2026 are not yet on sale. Sales typically open in late summer or early fall 2025 via the official Lauberhorn website. To receive ticket sales alerts, visit the Lauberhorn newsletter.

Q19. How do people reach Wengen for Lauberhorn?

Visitors can reach Wengen by train, bus, or private transfer. Most travellers take a train to Lauterbrunnen, while those preferring comfort and door-to-door service often choose private Bern Airport Transfer, which provides reliable and comfortable private transfers. 

Q20.Are there accommodation options in Wengen?

Yes—but book early! Most hotels sell out 6–12 months in advance. Options range from luxury (Hotel Falken, Hotel Schönegg) to guesthouses and chalets.

Q21. What are the weather conditions during the race?

Weather conditions during the FIS Ski World Cup Lauberhorn races in Wengen vary widely year to year, ranging from clear, sunny days to heavy snowfall, high winds, fog, or even rain, which can lead to cancellations or schedule changes. 

Q22. What makes Lauberhorn different from other ski races?

The Lauberhorn ski race is unique due to several features that distinguish it from other World Cup events, such as the longest downhill course in the circuit, the highest top speeds, and several unorthodox, natural terrain elements not typically found in modern, man-made courses.

Q23. Are private transfers available for Lauberhorn Wengen?

Yes, private transfers are available and highly recommended during Lauberhorn for a smooth and comfortable ride. Services like Bern Chauffeur service offer stress-free travel with professional drivers and spacious vehicles for ski luggage.

Q24. Is the Lauberhorn course the same every year?

The core route remains unchanged, but minor adjustments may be made for safety or snow conditions. The 4.48 km course with sections like Silberhornsprung and Zielschuss is consistent year to year.

Q25. What is the best way to travel with family?

The best option is a private transfer, as it offers comfort, safety, and flexibility for families. Services like Grandlane Transfer provide spacious vehicles, child-friendly travel, and stress-free journeys, ideal when travelling with kids and luggage.

Q26. What if the race is cancelled or postponed?

In rare cases (e.g., high winds, poor visibility), races may be postponed by 1–2 days or cancelled. Ticket policies vary. Paid tickets are usually non-refundable, but check the terms and conditions on the official page.

Q27. What are the best budget-friendly hotels to stay in Wengen during Lauberhorn?

For budget-friendly stays in Wengen during the Lauberhorn races, look into hotels like Hotel Victoria-Lauberhorn, Hotel Jungfraublick, Hotel Edelweiss, Hotel Alpenruhe, and Swiss Lodge Hotel Bernerhof, but book way in advance, as Wengen gets pricey during events.

Q28. What is the best luxury hotel in Wengen for business and premium travellers?

For premium business travel in Wengen, Hotel Regina and Beausite Park Hotel & Spa stand out, offering luxury amenities, stunning views, and excellent service. At the same time, Hotel Edelweiss provides high-end comfort with a charming, personalised touch, catering to discerning travellers seeking top-tier experiences.

Q29. Is Lauberhorn family-friendly?

Absolutely! Families attend every year. Bring kids early, use sleds for little ones, and visit the fan zone near the finish line with food, music, and athlete appearances.

Q30. What is the exact prize money offered in the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup?

For the 2025–26 FIS Alpine Ski World Cup season, prize money per individual race is set in euros with a standardised payout to the top 30 finishers:

1. €167,619 total prize pool for a typical World Cup race (Price Reference: FSI)

2. €54,709 to the winner, €25,608 for 2nd, €13,968 for 3rd, and descending amounts down to €816 for 30th place. (Price Reference: FSI)

Enjoy FSI Ski World Cup Lauberhorn Wengen 2026 by making hotel stay and ground transportation arrangements in Advance.