In an exciting development for alpine ski racing fans, women’s downhill and super-G events will return to the legendary Birds of Prey course at Beaver Creek Resort during the 2026-27 FIS Alpine Ski World Cup season.
U.S. Ski & Snowboard announced the preliminary domestic schedule on January 15, 2026, confirming that the men’s Stifel Birds of Prey World Cup will take place from December 3-6, 2026, featuring two downhills, a super-G, and a giant slalom. The women’s races will follow shortly after, on December 12-13, 2026, with a downhill and super-G on the iconic course.
This marks the second time women will compete on the full Birds of Prey track, following the historic debut in 2024 when the venue hosted women’s speed events for the first time on the same legendary course traditionally reserved for men. The return builds on the overwhelming positive response from athletes, fans, and organizers.
“Bringing the World Cup back to these iconic American venues reflects the passion of U.S. fans and the strength of our events,” said Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. “Returning to Copper for the second time in two years, welcoming women back to Beaver Creek, and continuing nearly a decade of racing at Killington underscores our commitment to growing the sport at home while delivering unforgettable moments for athletes and fans alike.”
The inclusion of women’s races has been made possible through significant support, including a transformational $10 million gift from John and Karen Arnold as part of the Vail Valley Foundation’s Empowering Possibility Capital Campaign. This funding helped secure and expand the event to feature both men’s and women’s FIS World Cup races, with the Red Tail Stadium named in their honor.
Sarah Franke, Senior Vice President of Operations for the Vail Valley Foundation — the nonprofit organizing the event — expressed enthusiasm about the continued growth: “Watching the women take on the Birds of Prey downhill course for the first time in 2024 was a historic moment for alpine ski racing, and the fan response was overwhelming. We are thrilled to continue growing our community’s ski racing legacy and building Birds of Prey as a premier destination for the fastest skiers on earth, both men and women.”
The Birds of Prey course, known for its steep, technical terrain, high-speed sections, and challenging jumps like the Golden Eagle and The Brink, is widely regarded as one of the toughest tests on the World Cup circuit. Athletes such as Marco Odermatt have praised it as a favorite, and the addition of women’s events has elevated its status as a must-see venue.
The full 2026-27 World Cup schedule remains preliminary and is subject to final approval by the FIS Council in spring 2026.
This announcement highlights the ongoing efforts to expand opportunities for women’s speed racing in North America, especially after the loss of traditional stops like Lake Louise. With back-to-back weekends of elite racing, Beaver Creek is poised to deliver another thrilling spectacle for competitors and spectators alike in December 2026. Stay tuned for ticket information and further details as the season approaches!
