The composition of the Slovenian ski teams for the 2026/27 season

The Slovenian Alpine Ski Association (Smučarska zveza Slovenije, SZS) has officially confirmed the composition of its national teams for the upcoming 2026/27 season during a meeting held in Ljubljana. This decision marks the culmination of strategic planning aimed at strengthening Slovenia's presence on the global alpine skiing circuit. The association’s board members have finalized both the training programs and team structures, ensuring that the country will field competitive squads in all disciplines of the World Cup.

In technical disciplines such as slalom and giant slalom, Slovenia will be represented by Žan Kranjec, who specializes in giant slalom. He will work under the guidance of new coach Denis Šteharnik, alongside assistant coaches Rok Šalej and servicer Marko Šumer. Kranjec will also use new equipment as part of his preparation. Previously, Miha Verdnik served as Kranjec’s coach but will not continue in this role for the new season. In addition to Kranjec, young talent Miha Oserban will compete primarily in European Cup races, aiming to make his mark in international competitions.

For speed disciplines such as downhill and super-G, Slovenia will send Miha Hrobat, Martin Čater, Nejc Naraločnik, and Rok Ažnoh. All four athletes are returning after injuries sustained last season. Rok Ažnoh will begin the season together with Alen Hriberšek in European Cup events. The head coach for the men’s speed team remains Aleš Brezavšček, supported by assistants Jaka Korenčan and Boštjan Kline. Their coaching staff was strengthened following a successful collaboration with Ilko Štuhec during the previous season. Equipment preparation will be handled by Žiga Rozina and Boštjan Delalut.

Several athletes are making their return to competition after recovering from injuries. Andreja Slokar and Neja Dvornik, both of whom suffered injuries last year, will represent Slovenia in World Cup events. They will be joined by Nika Tomšič, who will start her World Cup career after participating in European Cup races during the summer. For the women’s technical team, the coaching staff includes Aleš Valenti as head coach, along with Stefano Costazza and Andrea Massi. These individuals will oversee the return of Andreja Slokar to top-level competition.

Each athlete will have dedicated support for their equipment preparation. Jaka Dvornik will handle Neja Dvornik’s ski setup, while Luca Valenti will focus on Andreja Slokar’s gear. Nika Tomšič will join the B-team during the summer training period, practicing on European glaciers before transitioning into World Cup competition. Her training will be managed by Maj Mlakar, who will serve as both her coach and technician.

The budget allocated for the alpine skiing sector in the 2026/27 season amounts to 3.3 million euros. Of this sum, 2.7 million euros will be used for implementing training programs, with one-third designated specifically for youth and junior development initiatives. The association plans to maintain a C-team to facilitate the gradual progression of younger athletes toward higher selection levels. Additionally, two regional teams will be established to include promising athletes who may not yet meet the criteria for inclusion in the C-team. One of these teams is set to operate in the western region, while discussions regarding the eastern team are ongoing.

The list of athletes selected for the World Cup in the 2026/27 season includes Žan Kranjec representing the men’s technical team. The men’s speed team consists of Miha Hrobat, Martin Čater, Nejc Naraločnik, and Rok Ažnoh. On the women’s side, the technical team features Andreja Slokar, Neja Dvornik, and Nika Tomšič. These selections reflect the association’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence in both technical and speed disciplines while nurturing emerging talents for future success.