The Czech Republic is gaining recognition as a premier destination for international sporting events, offering not only challenging venues but also famously enthusiastic crowds. This weekend, Špindlerův Mlýn hosted a World Cup slalom race, lauded by athletes like Mikaela Shiffrin for its remarkable atmosphere, and Nové Město na Moravě continues to draw record attendance for biathlon competitions. The consistently strong fan support highlights the country’s growing role on the global sports stage.
Mikaela Shiffrin, a celebrated American skier, marked a significant milestone in her career this weekend with her 71st World Cup slalom victory. Following the race, Shiffrin expressed her gratitude, stating, “Thank you to everyone for your support and cheering. I could hear you. Špindler is a special place for me.”
The race took place in Špindlerův Mlýn, a mountain resort in the Krkonoše mountains of the Czech Republic.
Foto: Profimedia.cz
Slalomový víkend ve Špindlerově Mlýně.
The Czech Republic’s Špindlerův Mlýn hosted a World Cup slalom event this weekend, drawing praise from athletes who highlighted the exceptional support from fans and the high quality of the event organization. This level of enthusiasm for winter sports underscores the importance of accessible and well-organized athletic events for both participants and spectators.
Unlike typical World Cup locations such as Aspen, Colorado, or resorts in the Alps – including Sölden, Val-d’Isère, Garmisch, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and Saalbach – Špindlerův Mlýn offered a unique atmosphere.
“Unwavering enthusiasm. Euphoria,” was how the racers described their experience at the weekend competitions. After a three-year hiatus, the World Cup returned to Špindlerův Mlýn for its sixth time, offering athletes top-notch facilities and a dedicated organizing team. Thousands of fans turned out to cheer on the competitors, and Swedish favorite Sara Hector, who won Saturday’s giant slalom, shared her appreciation: “It was the first time in my life I could hear the fans from the start gate all the way to the finish.”
Foto: Profimedia.cz
Fandíme všem. Ale Američankám především.
Bringing Sport Means a Sell-Out Crowd
The Czech Republic consistently stands out in its enthusiastic support of world-class athletes. Whether it’s skiers in Špindlerův Mlýn, track and field competitors at the Golden Spike in Ostrava, or biathletes in Nové Město na Moravě, the country warmly welcomes and supports its visiting athletes.
This enthusiasm extends to major championships in hockey, floorball, and team sports. Last September, a frenetic atmosphere with dance rhythms captivated elite darts players who came to the Prague Exhibition Center in Letňany. That same event is scheduled to return this year, with another large turnout expected.
The saying that every Czech is a fan rings true. And the passion for biathlon plays a significant role in this.
Foto: Profimedia.cz
Hurá do cíle.
Nové Město na Moravě has become a phenomenon in the biathlon world. It’s arguably the hottest race on the entire World Cup circuit, packed with genuine enthusiasm, unwavering support for all competitors, national flags, and the aroma of plum brandy. As former racer Ondřej Moravec, now coach of the men’s national team, says, “It’s not just about the passionate support for Czech athletes. Nové Město is an experience you look forward to all year.”
Even on Monday morning, as athletes from around the world prepared for their final training session before the Olympic Games in Milan, many thought, “These are the best fans in the world.”
Perhaps. But it’s impossible to say definitively. Numbers at the turnstiles won’t give you the exact truth, and measured decibel levels near the course won’t either. It’s mainly about the overall impression, which is sometimes addictive at competitions in the Czech Republic.
When the Czech mixed relay team – Jislová, Voborníková, Hornig, and Krčmář – finished on Saturday evening, the arena in Nové Město vibrated so noticeably, you felt like it might explode at any moment. “Even though I was exhausted and crawling on the ground, the fans lifted me to my feet,” said anchor Michal Krčmář after securing a bronze medal in a sprint against the Americans. “There are no words to describe how much the people support us. It’s a reward to be able to compete here.”
Foto: Profimedia.cz
Tribuna v Novém Městě na Moravě. Sem se chcete za biatlonem vrátit.
Those who experienced the weekend’s competitions in the Czech snow were rewarded with an unforgettable experience. The next World Cup biathlon event in Nové Město na Moravě will take place from January 19th next year. If you want to be there, set a reminder in your calendar around September, as that’s when ticket pre-sales begin.
