Former World Cup champion and Mikaela Shiffrin’s longtime rival Petra Vlhová is making waves once again. The Slovak skiing star has hired Austrian coach Mario Rafetzeder as her new head coach, signaling a serious push toward a full return to the World Cup circuit after more than two years sidelined by injury.
Vlhová, the 2022 Olympic slalom gold medalist and 2020-21 overall World Cup winner, posted an excited update on Instagram alongside training photos from the Mölltaler Glacier. After undergoing two knee surgeries, the 31-year-old is now training at full capacity and rebuilding her team with fresh energy.
“I am happy that I can once again build my team and surround myself with people with whom I will fight to return to the World Cup,” Vlhová wrote. “I look forward to working with everyone on my team, and I believe Mario is the right leader to help us compete again with the best skiers in the world.”
A Strategic Hire for a Major Comeback
Rafetzeder brings strong credentials after spending the last two seasons with the Finnish team, where he played a key role in Eduard Hallberg’s breakthrough 2025-26 campaign that delivered multiple World Cup podiums. The experienced coach expressed enthusiasm about joining Vlhová’s squad.
“I thank Ski Team Petra Vlhová for the opportunity to be part of the team, a team that has already achieved great success,” Rafetzeder said. “There is a lot of systematic work and many new opportunities ahead of us. I believe that with the support of our entire team and the great Slovak fans, we can gradually achieve those goals together.”
Richard Galovič, manager of Ski Team Vlhová, confirmed the move completes the team structure for the 2026-27 season. Vlhová personally selected Rafetzeder, and the partnership starts as a one-season agreement with hopes for long-term success.
Setting the Stage for a Shiffrin Showdown?
Vlhová’s return could add fresh drama to the women’s circuit, especially with Shiffrin continuing her dominance. The two have delivered some of the most memorable rivalries in recent alpine skiing history. Fans are already buzzing about whether the Slovak star can reclaim her spot among the elite after such a long absence.
This latest development marks an exciting new chapter for Vlhová, who has shown remarkable resilience throughout her recovery. Ski Racing Media and fans worldwide will be watching closely as she targets a strong comeback in the upcoming season.
The skiing world loves a great comeback story — and Petra Vlhová appears ready to deliver one. Keep an eye on the slopes this winter!
