ADELBODEN, Switzerland — Overall World Cup leader Marcel Hirscher of Austria swept to victory in a giant slalom Saturday, denying Alexis Pinturault an emotional win for France.
Hirscher extended his morning lead to finish in a combined two-run time of 2 minutes, 39.11 seconds, beating Pinturault by 1.13.
Pinturault was among several French racers who wore “Je Suis Charlie” messages on their helmets, showing support for their home country after a traumatic week of terrorist incidents.
After crossing the finish line as provisional leader, Pinturault pointed to the slogan. Standing on the podium in the post-race ceremony, he held up a “Je Skie Charlie” message.
“For me it was important to show my solidarity,” the 23-year-old Olympic bronze medalist said. “It’s a little bit complicated to understand everything, but this could happen in Switzerland one day. You never know when this attack will happen.”
Henrik Kristoffersen of Norway finished third, trailing 1.64 behind Hirscher.
Olympic and world champion Ted Ligety of the United States placed seventh, 1.86 back.
The classic Adelboden GS is the last in Ligety’s specialist event before defending his world championships title Feb. 13 at Beaver Creek.
Miller to return. Bode Miller is scheduled to make a downhill training run Tuesday at Wengen, Switzerland, his first since back surgery.
Results 11CC
