The Para Alpine Ski World Cup takes place in St. Moritz from 19–21 December. What is the significance of these races?
The Para World Cup in St. Moritz is one of the highlights of the entire World Cup circuit. A dreamlike racecourse, embedded in the beautiful Engadine mountains. The local race organisation around Robin Miozzari and Sandro Künzler has been ensuring perfect races for paralympic athletes for many years. Then there are the many incredibly dedicated volunteers from Voluntari Engiadina and Microsoft. Teams from all over the world love coming here, and the Swiss athletes are immensely proud of their home race. As a federation, we are also grateful for the wonderful and inclusive cooperation with St. Moritz Tourism, the municipality, and all local partners.

What does St. Moritz mean to you when you're not on the slopes?
Just one month after retiring, I went ski touring at the Julier Pass. From there, I could look down onto the racecourse. Standing there, it felt like I had come full circle – one of the most special moments for me here. I’ve also recently visited the region with my little family in a camper van.

What would you tell people who watch the races from the chairlift?
Come and join us! It's worth experiencing it live, both along the course and in the finish area. In our village, you can find out about disability sports, try an exciting awareness course and get up close to the athletes and their sports. There will be plenty of action: it’s an important Paralympic qualifying race, and there have never been so many athletes competing.

And people should be aware that ski racing is already very demanding. So, what does it mean to race blind, sitting down or on one leg? That's taking it to the next level!

Earlier, you mentioned that creativity and motivation play a significant role in your life. What advice would you give to people who feel unable to express their creativity or freedom?
Try it! If it doesn't work the first time, just ask for help. People with disabilities learn from an early age to accept support. That opens doors. A good example for me is wake surfing. I only managed it because we worked together as a team, turning the impossible into something possible.

*Joachim Röthlisberger grew up in the Bernese Oberland. A former Paralympic athlete, he has been a member of the organising committee for the FIS Para Alpine Ski World Cup St. Moritz for over 10 years. He works in marketing and communications at PluSport Disabled Sports Switzerland.

FIS Para Alpine Ski World Cup St. Moritz:
From 19–21 December, over 120 athletes from 25 nations will compete on the Corviglia course. For the Swiss team, including Robin Cuche and Théo Gmür, this home race is an important step towards the 2026 Paralympics in Milan and Cortina.
Start times: 1st run: 10:00; 2nd run: 13:00. Admission is free. *

Photos: Marcus Hartmann & Marco Mantovani

Breaking Barriers