The Val di Sole Bikeland-backed Downhill sensation, who won on his World Cup debut in Lenzerheide among juniors, sets his sights on recreating his success in Daolasa di Commezzadura on the renowned Black Snake track: "Now I have the confidence"
Christian Hauser's voice still trembles with excitement. The elation of his first victory in the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup doesn't fade overnight. Last Friday, June 9th, in Lenzerheide (Switzerland), the Trentino rider representing Val di Sole Bikeland stunned the World, and most importantly, himself, as he clinched the title on his debut Junior World Cup outing.
With this backdrop, the upcoming Mountain Bike World Cup stage in Val di Sole (June 29th - July 2nd) garners heightened anticipation from Italian fans. In addition to long-time World Cup performers Eleonora Farina and Veronika Widmann, Italy's downhill racing scene brims with hope to leave an impression also among men, stirring up thousands of fans ready to climb the legendary Black Snake trail with their famous chainsaws.
Reflecting on his remarkable feat, Hauser remarks, "It was an overwhelming emotion. To be honest, I didn't anticipate it, even though some technicians and journalists had named me among the favorites. It was my World Cup debut, devoid of any track references or knowledge of my opponents. I am absolutely thrilled."
Even in victory, Hauser exhibits ambition, clarity of thought, and maturity far beyond his 17 years. The Trentino rider from Mezzocorona embarked on the competitive circuit following a string of triumphs at the youth level, including a silver medal at the U17 European Championships in 2021 and numerous victories in the IXS DH European Cup 2022. "This marks the beginning for me. Now I am aware of my competitiveness and my own strengths. While I strive to enjoy the race, victory is not a prerequisite, but I am confident in my ability to conquer the Black Snake trail. The stopwatch remains my greatest adversary."
Hauser will step up to the starting line of the Black Snake for the first time on Thursday, June 29th, for the qualifying round of the Men's Junior category. If he progresses, he will participate in the final round scheduled for Friday, June 30th, at 2:00 PM.
"For me, it is an honor to compete on my home track," Hauser declares. "The Black Snake holds a special place in my heart—it's my favorite track. The Val di Sole World Cup is a can’t-miss event for me. Since childhood, I have been a spectator, witnessing the fervent cheers from the crowd. Many friends will be in attendance, and I am proud to represent both my team and Italy in the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup."
Hauser further elaborates on his deep connection to Val di Sole, highlighting his consistent training routine in the bike parks of Commezzadura and Tonale, which offer trails of different kinds. "The collaboration with Val di Sole Bikeland is very important for me. Their support allows me to engage in quality training even during the offseason”.
In 2023, Christian Hauser joined "The Union" team, which focuses on developing rising stars in the DH realm, serving as a talent pool for those destined for top Factory Teams in the World Cup. "Today's young riders are formidable; one need only look at Jordan Williams' accomplishment in Lenzerheide—emerging victorious in his inaugural Elite race in the World Cup. Experience undoubtedly holds value, but the background of young riders today is markedly different from that of two decades ago."
"I consider myself lucky to be part of a team like 'The Union,' which prioritizes the growth of athletes over an unwavering pursuit of results. Within my team, I have the privilege of riding alongside a highly experienced rider like Antoine Pierron. He is an exceptional individual, always eager to offer guidance, and his brother Amaury serves as my global benchmark," Hauser concludes.
