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'The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams' (Eleanor Roosevelt).

FIS Newsflash was able to catch up with FIS Council Member Michel Vion (FRA) following the meeting held at Portoroz (SLO) during the FIS Calendar Conference last week between the ski industry’s organization SRS (Ski Racing Suppliers), led by Co-President Gregor Dietachmayr of Fischer, and the National Ski Associations’ ski pool representatives.

Q. France and Val d’Isere will host the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in 2009, the first in France in 47 years and the third ever. In your view, how are the preparations progressing?

A. A lot of work had already been done in preparation for and during the Candidacy so the starting point for the organization was solid. Work on the slopes is progressing and while a lot remains to be done and the expectations are high, we continue to push hard. One of the biggest challenges is finalizing the structure for the two face-to-face competition slopes with a common finish area. However, all slopes are now ready to be tested during the upcoming season’s pre-World Championship events. There has been some delay with the construction of the new sports center that will serve as the organization and media center but we are confident that these issues will be solved and the project will be realized with all the necessary requirements. We are confident that Val d’Isere will be ready on time, have excellent infrastructure and deliver successful FIS Alpine World Ski Championships in 2009.

Of course, as we saw this year in Sweden, a strong national team is a key component of successful championships, especially for creating interest in Alpine Skiing which is one of our main goals. At the same time, much work is being invested to ensure a wonderful atmosphere through side events and free entry to all the races, which will help us deliver a great skiing experience for all our visitors.

Q. Given your position as Director of Racing at Rossignol, how do you see the equipment industry’s role within FIS?

A. Fundamentally, the equipment industry should not be considered as a sponsor but as an essential partner. While FIS governs the system, the industry is working at all levels from the elite racing to youth and children’s cups, let alone the leisure segment. On an annual basis, the industry invests more than €80 million in making the wheels turn. Currently, we are experiencing a very difficult period and more than ever, increased cooperation between FIS and the industry, through SRS, is required. While FIS has been receptive to our concerns in the past, pressure from the National Ski Associations (NSAs) has prevented real progress. Currently, there is a real urgency of action and the SRS is better organized with clearer ideas of what it needs. Ultimately, however, we all – FIS, NSAs and SRS – are sitting in the same boat and need to agree on improvements to everyone’s benefit. I personally have high expectations for the working group between FIS and the industry to be chaired by FIS President Gian Franco Kasper.

Q. The initial sales figures for ski equipment from this season show a dramatic drop. Is this due to one bad season or a long-term trend?

A. The long term figures show decreasing sales over a period of time so this is more of a general problem. Skiing has become to be seen as expensive, weather-dependent and perhaps little less trendy. There are more and more leisure opportunities available, be it sports or other activities. I am not concerned about the end of ski sports – they will survive - but rather that the industry may have to reconsider its relative investment in racing. Collectively, however, we as the industry together with FIS, NSAs and ski resorts must continue to interest young people under the age of 18 for skiing. Research has shown that this age is critical for determining adult behavior. In practice, this means that we need new ideas for technology, equipment, events, pricing practices and more; anything to make skiing more attractive to children and the youth!

FIS Press Release