Interview with Vincent Vittoz – top skier of France

Fri, Dec  5, 2008 - By FIS

33-year-old Vincent Vittoz is already a ski veterans. In 156 World Cups starts, he has collected 7 World Cup victories, 18 World Cup podiums and, last but not least, he won the Pursuit race in the 2005 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships. On the upcoming weekend the World Cup returns to his home town of La Clusaz. The FIS Cross-Country News had the possibility to speak briefly with the home favorite.

FIS CC NEWS: The next Viessmann FIS World Cup event will be in your home town in La Clusaz. The spectators expect a lot from you. Are you satisfied with your preparation & results so far this season?

Vincent Vittoz: I had a good preparation in the last months and especially during the last training camps on the glaciers. I trained especially for this stage in La Clusaz which is one of my main goals for the beginning of the season. I had a good feeling in free technique in Gaellivare and I hope to be in my top shape in La Clusaz at home with all our supporters.

FIS CC News: What are your expectations for the upcoming World Cup weekend?

Vincent Vittoz: I would like to fight for the podium in both races and expect a lot of spectators to cheer us around the course and create a great atmosphere.

FIS CC News: We have several season highlights like the Viessmann FIS Tour de Ski, the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in Liberec and the overall World Cup. Which one is your main focus this season?

Vincent Vittoz: Clearly the World Ski Championships in Liberec because the Tour de Ski formats and styles do not favor me; there is, I think, too much classical technique and I'm not a sprinter. The overall World Cup is interesting but the way is long and complicated. You have to be on the top the whole season which is why it's actually better for me to try to be on the top on the D-day (decision day) in Liberec.