“A stylist like me”
Mike von Grünigen ennobles Loïc Meillard for a huge victory
Michael von Grünigen (53) is enthusiastic about Loïc Meillard (26). After his victory in Schladming, the man from Bern says what makes his successor so special.
Published: 21 minutes ago
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Loïc Meillard has risen to new heights with his victory in the giant slalom in Schladming (Austria).
Mathias Germannreporter sports
After 12 podium finishes, Loïc Meillard (26) made it. He wins in Schladming (Austria) for the first time in a classic ski discipline. Not somehow, but with two beautiful giant slalom runs.
The Valais leaves memories of perhaps the greatest ski technician that Switzerland has ever had: Michael von Grüningen (53). “There are parallels,” confirms the Bernese to Blick. «I have known Loïc for more than ten years. Even as a teenager, it was unmistakable what incredible ski feeling he had. It was just wonderful to watch him then, just like it is now.”
Mike von Grünigen in Val d’Isere in 2000.
Von Grünigen and Meillard with the same truck
Von Grünigen did not experience Meillard’s victory ride in Schladming live on TV. “But I watched the rerun and was really happy for him. And of course for Gino Caviezel, who finished second.” While Meillard has been one of the most consistent and strongest Swiss for years, he took another step forward this winter. He shines not only in giant slalom and slalom, but also in super-G. He finished third on one of the most difficult slopes of all, in Bormio.
Giant slalom in Schladming: This is how Loïc Meillard drives to victory on the Planai(00:27)
“These successes have given him the necessary flexibility to strike now. Loïc is a perfectionist. It’s a huge quality, but at times it almost beat himself for it. He wanted to do it too well. Incidentally, that’s something I’ve been accused of at times in my career.”
Plaschy: “He would dizzy”
For SRF expert Didier Plaschy (49), the similarities between Meillard’s and von Grünigen’s driving styles are unmistakable. “It was a pleasure to watch Mike. Just as it is a pleasure to experience Loïc’s rides today. For me, Loïc is a ski lover. Skiing is his elixir of life – if you took his skis away from him, he would probably be dazed.” Plaschy is convinced that Meillard will win many more races.
Back to von Grünigen. The man who won the giant slalom World Cup four times between 1995 and 2003 says: «Loïc is a stylist, as I was. Unfortunately, I never managed to win a slalom. However, I am convinced that he will succeed soon – he has everything that it takes.”
Ideally right at the World Championships in Méribel/Courchevel, which starts in just over a week? Von Grünigen: «Why not? He has chances in several disciplines. I hope he can keep that looseness on the skis and I’ll definitely keep my fingers crossed for him!»
Kitzbühel winner Daniel Yule: “Would like to toast with a Génépi”(02:28)
Attention ski fans! Now quiz and type races
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Have fun and good luck!
The 2022/2023 ski season is in full swing and so is the “Blick Ski Trophy”: Answer questions every day, type ski races and crown yourself as ski champion. Lots of great prizes await.
To take part in the “Blick Ski Trophy”, you have to register here.
Have fun and good luck!