There will be more skiing options for recreational skiers and fewer racers on the Zermatt glacier this summer.

Earlier this week the Zermatt lift company announced that it will no longer be providing race training options for elite athletes on the Theodul Glacier this summer.

Instead, Zermatt will increase the number of training slopes available exclusively for young racers from local ski clubs and Swiss performance centres.

‘Speed Opening’ races cancelled

Close observers of Zermatt will be aware that for the last two winters, the resort has been scheduled to host the first ever cross-border Alpine World Cup downhill races – known as ‘Speed Opening’.

Zermatt had created an impressive training area for downhill skiers to allow them to practice through the summer and autumn months.

Unfortunately, a lack of snow in December 2022 was followed by high winds in December 2023 and on both occasions the races were cancelled.

Despite FIS having agreed a five-year contract with Zermatt, the ‘Speed Opening’ races have been removed from the World Cup calendar for 2024/25.

More options for recreational skiers

The upside from this is that more of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Ski area will be available for recreational skiers.

The 21km of slopes on the glacier in Zermatt is open for skiing all summer.

In addition, the new ‘SnowXperience Plateau Rosa’ beginners’ park at Testa Grigia will give visitors a chance to get their first taste of skiing or snowboarding, as well as a range of other activities on the snow.

Accommodation and Concierge Service

If you’d like to join us in Zermatt this summer, please contact Ed or Suzanne from Matterhorn Chalets and we would be delighted to help.

We offer hotels, serviced chalets and self-catering apartments. In addition, our concierge service means we can book your transfers, restaurants, lift passes and whatever else you will need during your stay.