Q & A with Bernhard Russi
Swiss skiing legend Bernhard Russi conquers the slopes with unparalleled finesse, leaving behind an inspiring legacy that continues to captivate winter sports enthusiasts worldwide.
What was the best race you have witnessed at the International Lauberhorn Races?
I partially saw and painfully witnessed Franz Klammer’s winning run in 1975. With poor visibility and rough piste conditions, he improved the course record at the time with a time of 2:35.19 – leaving us all behind by over three and a half seconds.
Who do you consider to be Mister Lauberhorn?
I’m afraid I’ll have to mention three names. Karl Molitor with his six wins between 1939 and 1947. Toni Sailer with four consecutive successful races between 1955 and 1958. And last but not least, Karl Schranz with four triumphs against three generations of top athletes (Sailer, Killy, Collombin). What makes the myth of the Lauberhorn Races for you? The fantastic scenery and natural surroundings, the mountain landscape and the length of the race.
How would you rate the value of winning at Lauberhorn compared to winning any other World Cup race?
I am a Lauberhorn winner but on the wrong side, in Grindelwald. Of my ten World Cup victories, I would trade five for a win at Lauberhorn and four for a triumph at the Hahnenkamm in Kitzbühel. The tenth, the world championship title, I’d keep for myself!
What has been the most emotional moment for you personally in Wengen?
It’s hard to explain, but it was when I finished in 10th place in 1970, with the start number 73 and won my very first World Cup point.
Which three skiers who were active before or after you would you have liked to compete against at the Lauberhorn?
Definitely Toni Sailer, Jean-Claude Killy and Beat Feuz!
Words Alex Kühn
Related Stories
28 – 31 August 2025 // The Omega European Masters, which takes place in Crans-Montana (VS), has been offering its 50,000 spectators magical moments in a breathtaking Alpine environment ever since 1939. Professional golfers from all over the world come to compete in the most stunning setting of the DP World Tour schedule.
Discover more
26 – 31 December 2024 // The Spengler Cup is considered the oldest international ice hockey team tournament. The trophy of the same name was awarded for the first time in 1923.
Discover more
17 – 19 January 2025 // In January 2025, the 95th International Lauberhorn Races will be held in Wengen in the beautiful Bernese Oberland. The world’s best Alpine skiers will compete in the Super-G on Friday, on the legendary Lauberhorn downhill slope on Saturday, and in the Slalom on Sunday.
Discover more
06 – 16 August 2025 // Every summer since 1946, the Locarno Film Festival has brought the world’s most innovative cinema to the shores of Lake Maggiore. Thanks to its free spirit, the Festival has become an incubator of ideas and new projects, with educational and cultural activities organised throughout the year.
Discover more
27 – 28 August 2025 // Weltklasse Zürich, an event where Olympic champions face off against world-class rivals, captivates over 25,000 fans at the famed Letzigrund Stadium. Whether it's a photo-finish sprint, a gravity-defying jump, or a new world-leading throw, every second pulses with excitement. This year, the energy extends to Sechseläuten Platz, the historic heart of Zurich, adding a cultural flair to the competition. With the prestigious Wanda Diamond League Final returning to the city, 32 disciplines will be contested by the best athletes on the planet.
Discover more
You can find further information and details at swisstopevents.ch
Discover more
19 – 22 June 2025 // The New York Times dubbed it the Art Olympics, Vogue called it ‘the most beautiful temporary museum in the world’, and Le Monde simply hailed it as ‘the best in the world’. Art Basel, the premier international art show, attracts and inspires art lovers from across the globe year after year.
Discover more