Mikaela Shiffrin, the record-holding alpine skier with 99 World Cup victories, has announced her withdrawal from the team event at the World Ski Championships in Courchevel and Meribel, France. Shiffrin, who returned to competition last week after a November injury, will focus on the slalom and giant slalom events.
The team event, a new addition to the World Championships, combines downhill and slalom disciplines. Shiffrin's absence will be notable, as many anticipated a potential pairing with fellow American skier Lindsey Vonn, who recently returned from retirement. Vonn, with 82 World Cup wins, expressed her desire to compete alongside Shiffrin, stating she would be thrilled to race with her if the opportunity arose.
Shiffrin, who is competing in her seventh World Championships, is aiming to defend her giant slalom title and her silver medal in slalom. She has won four world championships in slalom and holds a total of 14 World Championship medals, half of which are gold.