Tomorrow’s champions on the slope of their idols at the Grand Prix Migros

“Being in the Grand Prix Migros final was an incredible experience for me. It was a childhood dream coming true.” In 2013, in Stoos, Franjo von Allmen won the combi-race of the iconic children’s competition. The Bernese triple Olympic champion and Crans-Montana 2027 ambassador is one of many stars who shone at a young age in the Grand Prix Migros before breaking through on the international stage.

All of today’s top Swiss athletes, such as Marco Odermatt, Loïc Meillard, Lara Gut-Behrami and Michelle Gisin, have come through this circuit, which has brought together young skiers aged 8 to 16 for over half a century. To close the season in style, Crans-Montana is hosting the grand final for the first time this year, where participants will compete on the Nationale slope.

A spectacular setting for a competition that is just as impressive, less than a year before the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships Crans-Montana 2027. A strong symbol, as highlighted by Alessio Gioli, President of the Organising Committee of these finals: “Children can compete ten months before the world’s best skiers, on the same slope and with the same infrastructure. That’s unique.”

Racing like the pros

Around 900 young ski talents will have the chance to race down the Nationale slope. “The goal is to create lasting memories for the children. When they watch the World Championships in a year, they’ll be able to say they skied on the same course,” continues Alessio Gioli. A direct link with the world elite, further strengthened by the presence of several athletes who will come to share their experience on site.

For Didier Défago, CEO of Crans-Montana 2027, this is “an incredible opportunity” for all these children to test themselves on a World Cup slope. “It puts stars in their eyes and creates vocations.” The former Olympic champion also highlights the educational aspect of the event. “They discover what competition infrastructure means, timing systems, streaming, organisation. It’s a real transfer of experience.” While the pressure is not the same as on the White Circus, the standards remain high for organisers and the challenges are similar. “We must guarantee impeccable quality for several hundred children on the same course.”

3,000 people expected each day

In total, nearly 1,200 children are expected over the weekend, across both alpine and Nordic events, a first in the history of the competition. “Swiss-Ski suggested bringing both disciplines together for this final. It was an opportunity to show that we are capable of organising two major events at the same time,” adds Alessio Gioli.

A major logistical challenge, particularly for hosting the Nordic competitions between Cry d’Er and Chetzeron, but also a true celebration during the race days, including the opening ceremony taking place in the finish stadium of the Nationale slope on Friday afternoon. Over the weekend, around 3,000 people are expected each day for an event supported by more than 150 volunteers.

Malorie Blanc’s memories

Beyond performance, it is above all the experience that leaves a lasting impression. “For children, it’s a very special event, the highlight of the season,” recalls Malorie Blanc. The Crans-Montana 2027 ambassador won the giant slalom in 2016 in St. Moritz. “Beyond the results, I always loved the moments spent with friends in the village.” Because the Grand Prix Migros is above all a celebration, with a friendly atmosphere. Between competitions, activities, the partner village and prize ceremonies, everything is designed to make this final an unforgettable experience for the champions of tomorrow.