The World Para Alpine Skiing Championships, held in Maribor in February 2025 and attracting the best para alpine skiers from around the globe, concluded successfully and received widespread praise from both participants and sports organizations. Recently, it was also honored with a special commendation from the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS).
In an official letter sent in April this year, the FIS expressed sincere gratitude to the competition’s organizing committee, led by President Ranko Šmigoc and Secretary General Srečko Vilar. “Maribor and Slovenia have proven their ability to host a world championship at the highest level, with dedicated and capable individuals who played a key role in the event’s success,” wrote FIS President Johan Eliasch and Secretary General Michel Vion.
The FIS leadership also highlighted the outstanding hospitality, professional organization, and vibrant atmosphere that elevated the event on Maribor’s Pohorje mountain into a true celebration of para sports. Praise was also extended to the many volunteers and support staff whose dedication and energy ensured the smooth running of the competition.
The World Championships in Maribor served as an exceptional promotion of para alpine skiing and as an inspiration for new generations of athletes. “We hope the success of Maribor 2025 will continue to inspire the world and foster the development of para alpine skiing in Slovenia and beyond,” the FIS leaders added.
This year’s championships, held from February 2 to 11, 2025, will undoubtedly be remembered as a key milestone in the development of para alpine skiing in Slovenia. It was, after all, the first time in history that the event was held in Maribor and in the country as a whole. With this, Maribor has returned to the map of top-tier international ski competitions and has once again proven to be a city with a big heart and a wealth of experience in hosting global sporting events.
The championship was organized by Marprom and Šport Maribor, with support from the Maribor Public Holding and the Municipality of Maribor. A total of 135 athletes from 33 countries competed, and 12 sets of medals were awarded. France emerged as the most successful nation, collecting six medals—three gold, one silver, and two bronze. At least one medal was won by athletes from 15 different countries.
You can find the original FIS commendation at this link.
