Swiss alpine racer Silvano Gini announces his retirement at the age of 24.

The skiing world sees a young talent move on as Swiss alpine racer Silvano Gini announces his retirement from professional competition at the age of 24.

After a winter season characterized by both high-speed success at the FIS level and significant challenges on the European Cup circuit, Gini has decided to hang up his racing skis. While his career showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in the speed disciplines, he has opted to close this chapter following the recent Swiss Championships in St. Moritz.

A Season of Contrast

The 2025/2026 season was a bit of a rollercoaster for the young Swiss specialist. While he struggled to find his rhythm in the European Cup—his season-best being a 51st place in the Verbier downhill—his performance at the FIS level told a different story. Gini dominated several FIS Super-G events, securing three victories and a notable second-place finish, proving he had the pace to compete at the front of the pack.

Career Highlights

Though often labeled a giant slalom specialist, Gini’s career-best result on the professional circuit came in the Super-G, where he secured a 17th-place finish in the European Cup at Crans-Montana.

Despite his potential, Gini never made the jump to the World Cup stage. (Note: While some reports mistakenly mention World Cup starts, Gini actually departs the sport having focused his career on the FIS and European Cup tours).

Final Results at St. Moritz

Gini’s final competitive appearances took place at the Swiss National Championships earlier this month. His results reflected a tough final outing:

• Downhill: 30th place

• Giant Slalom: 32nd place

• Super-G: DNF (Did Not Finish)

The Road Ahead

Retiring at 24 is a significant decision in a sport where many athletes don’t hit their prime until their late twenties. However, after the grind of the winter tour and the difficulty of breaking into the elite European Cup top-30, Gini is ready for a new path.

He leaves the professional circuit with three FIS trophies on his mantle and the respect of a Swiss team that saw him give his all from the local hills to the international stage.