France’s Paco Rassat Clinches Sensational Gurgl Slalom Victory, Surges to World Cup Lead

French skier Paco Rassat stuns the Alpine skiing world with a breakthrough World Cup slalom win in Gurgl, overcoming a deep start and fierce competition. Belgium’s Marchant celebrates a historic podium, as Rassat claims the coveted red bib.

French skier Paco Rassat delivered one of the season’s most memorable performances on the icy slopes of Gurgl, Austria, capturing his first-ever World Cup victory in men’s slalom. Entering the decisive second run ranked only 14th, Rassat clocked the fastest final time to vault past the favorites by a margin of just 0.07 seconds. The 27-year-old wasn’t even tipped as a medal contender and had never previously appeared on a World Cup podium, making this win a career-defining milestone.

Underdogs Rise—And History Is Made

This dramatic race unfolded under clear alpine skies, with both Rassat and Belgium’s Armand Marchant proving that dreams can come true against the odds. Marchant, starting from bib 23, raced to second place—securing not only his maiden World Cup podium but also Belgium’s first in Alpine skiing history. Marchant emotionally dedicated his result to his parents, crediting their sacrifices and support in a country where mountains and winter sports are rare. Norway’s Atle Lie McGrath, who led after the opening run, finished agonizingly close in third—just 0.09 seconds adrift.

Red Bib Glory and Shifting Standings

As Rassat vaulted up the standings, he claimed the prestigious red bib, symbolizing the slalom discipline leader for the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup. Brazil’s Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, who won the previous slalom event in Levi, finished tenth in Gurgl, yielding his position atop the rankings to the Frenchman. With the next men’s slalom taking place in Val d’Isère—Rassat’s home race—the excitement and anticipation are set to soar. Local favorite Dominik Raschner delighted the Austrian crowd by leaping from 25th to sixth thanks to a bold second run performance.

What’s Next on the World Cup Tour

The Gurgl result reshuffles the early season narrative, suggesting this year’s World Cup slalom campaign could be one of the most competitive and unpredictable in recent times. Rassat’s maiden victory and Marchant’s breakthrough have expanded the circle of contenders while shining a spotlight on inspiring stories from underdog nations. All eyes now turn to Val d’Isère in December, where Rassat will wear the leader’s bib on home snow, marking a new chapter for French Alpine skiing.