Stefan Abplanalp is changing his area of activity within the Swiss-Ski organization. The man from the Bernese Oberland will succeed Enrico Vetsch as head coach of the ski cross team.
12.05.2026, 10:35
12.05.2026, 11:23
SDA
"We are hoping for fresh impetus from Stefan Abplanalp," says Sacha Giger, Director of Ski Freestyle, Snowboard and Telemark at the association, in a press release. "Stefan knows how to transfer his positive energy and enthusiasm to a team. We are convinced that this team, under the leadership of Ralph Pfäffli as Head of Ski Cross, Snowboard Cross and Snowboard Alpine and Stefan Abplanalp as Head Coach, will continue the success story that has been going on for many years."
Swiss-Ski has long enjoyed a fruitful collaboration in the sports of ski cross and alpine skiing. Talent transfer, training guest appearances, research, development and training - the exchange and synergies are diverse and valuable for both sides. The appointment of Abplanalp as the new head coach fits in with this strategy.
Abplanalp can look back on a long and successful career as a coach in alpine racing. Most recently, he was responsible as group coach for the speed skiers. Now he is taking on a new challenge. "I've had good contacts with the ski cross team for many years," says Abplanalp. "I'm excited to contribute my knowledge and experience to this sport. I'm looking forward to leading this strong team into the future together with my fellow coaches and the other staff members."
Vetsch is stepping down as head coach at his own request. His departure after the last Olympic cycle has been a foregone conclusion for some time. The Grisons native wants to spend more time with his family and is therefore reorienting himself professionally.
