The past few weeks have been anything but easy! After difficult races in La Thuile and another setback, it felt like my confidence had slipped away. But in Andorra, that positive feeling I had missed for so long was suddenly back. The result might not show it, but I know I am heading in the right direction.
The races in La Thuile (ITA) were a huge disappointment for me. Once again, I struggled immensely with the dry and dusty conditions. Despite a highly interesting track, it was one of those race weekends where absolutely nothing came together. When your self-confidence is already bruised, every setback feels twice as heavy. I questioned a lot of things and had to accept that, during those days, the joy of racing had simply gone.
A glimmer of hope in Andorra
Because of this, I pinned my hopes on the races in Andorra. Thanks to my past victories there, I associate many fond memories with this World Cup venue. Already on Friday, the weather played into my hands a little. The thunderstorm before the Short Track settled the dust, and the conditions suited me much better. However, it still wasn’t enough for a top result.
Then on Sunday, that good feeling was finally back. I felt comfortable on the bike, was able to ride my own race, and regained trust in my abilities. Although a flat tyre cost me many positions—meaning I only finished in the top 25 in the end—the result doesn’t tell the whole story. What matters most to me is that the positive feeling has finally returned.
Looking ahead to the second half of the season with confidence
My summer break is starting now, and my focus will be entirely on preparing for the second half of the season. My motivation is huge. I know that not much is missing for me to be right back where I belong. After a few days of recovery, it will be time for some targeted work and taking things step by step. I am convinced that this will put me back in contention for top results.
