Sami Kennedy: Thrills and Spills expected in Ski Cross

Ski Cross is fast, fierce and unpredictable, pitting four skiers head-to-head on the same course. Athletes race down a track packed with jumps, rollers and banked turns, battling for position while trying to stay upright at full speed.

There are no style points, it’s a straight race to the finish, with the top two advancing each round. There are crashes, photo finishes and constant lead changes - ski cross delivers some of the most action-packed moments of the Winter Olympics.

We sat down with Australian Olympian Sami Kennedy, to preview the event at Milano Cortina. 

What makes Ski Cross unique compared to other Winter Olympic events?

“Ski and Snowboard cross events are thrilling to watch,” Kennedy said. 

“The viewer doesn't have to know anything about winter sports to understand the principle of the competitions. The first two athletes across the line proceed to the next heat. That is it. It’s the perfect sport to consume for the whole family.”

What are the key moments in competition where medals are usually won or lost? 

“The start is very important,” she said. 

“Athletes like Beijing 2022 Olympic Champion Sandra Naslund of Sweden swear by leading from start to finish. 

“It depends on the race track though as to what will be tactically possible.”

Who are the athletes or nations expected to set the standard heading into Milano–Cortina? 

“Germany, Italy and Canada are always strong,” she said. 

“I would say in the Womens, Daniela Maer (GER), Sandra Naslund (SWE), Marielle Thompson (CAN) and Jolle Galle (ITA) are looking like podium contenders. 

“In the Men, Florian Willmsman (GER), Simone Deromidas (ITA), Reece Howden (CAN) and Youri Duplessi (FRA) are the ones to watch.” 

Are there any rising stars who could surprise people at these Games? 

“Saskia Lack (SUI) and Maylene Ballet Baz (FRA), could surprise in the women’s competition,” she said. 

“Evan Klufts (FRA) and Cornel Renn (GER) are also contenders.” 

What rivalries or storylines should fans keep an eye on? 

“Ryan Regez (SUI) is the reigning Olympic and World Champion, he will be spicy to watch,” she said, 

“Current world champ Fanny Smith (SUI) is also one to watch!”

What would make these Olympics memorable for Ski Cross? 

“An Italian victory at an Italian Olympics would be such a moving story from these Games,” she said. 

“It would help boost participation globally into the new cycle.” 

After Milano–Cortina, how do you see Ski Cross continuing to evolve?

“Hopefully more and more athletes start pursuing the discipline,” she said. 

“It is so fun and a unique lifestyle to have.”