In front of a crowd of around 50,000 fans, the two-time Olympic medalist achieved his fifth victory on the demanding Planai course – and the 34th World Cup victory of his career.
Kristoffersen followed the temporary leader Atle Lie McGrath by 0.15 seconds after the first run, but an aggressive second run put him ahead, holding off his teammate by 0.34 seconds.
Olympic champion Clemens Noel completed the podium (+0.54) after recording the fastest time in the second run.
After taking his first win of the season, Kristoffersen broke down in tears and did not hide his emotions when speaking to FIS just after the race: “It was an emotional rollercoaster. I don’t cry a lot, and I never cry out of pain or sadness, but today I cried with joy. Fifth time in Schladming, I think this is my house!”
The difficult course forced many racers to push themselves to their limits Edward Hallberg (FIN), Paco Rassat (FRA) duck Loïc Meillard (SUI) among the high-profile skiers who did not complete the second run.
Brazilian star Lucas Pinheiro Braathen finished just off the podium for the fourth time this season, handing the lead in the slalom standings by one point to his friend – and former teammate – McGrath.
The next technical races after the Olympic break will take place in Kranjska Gora, Slovenia, with a giant slalom and slalom on March 7 and 8.
#Henrik #Kristoffersen #illuminates #Nightrace #victory #Schladming #slalom #FIS #Alpine #Skiing #World #Cup