Albania hosts inaugural Ski Excellence Night to mark historic season

The Albanian Ski Federation hosted its first Ski Excellence Night in Tirana, bringing together approximately 200 invited guests to mark a milestone season for alpine skiing in the country. 

The event recognised the achievements of athletes, coaches, partners, media representatives and supporters who have contributed to the development of skiing in Albania. It also reflected on the federation’s progress in recent years, during which Albanian athletes have established a growing presence on the international stage.

A milestone season 

The 2025/26 season represented an important step for Albanian skiing, with the country earning four alpine skiing quotas for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. 

Among the evening’s award recipients was Lara Colturi, who was named Best Athlete of the Year following another successful World Cup season. With seven World Cup podium finishes to date, Colturi continues to establish herself among the leading athletes on the circuit. 

Denni Xhepa received the Best Male Athlete of the Year award, while Daniela Ceccarelli, Lara Colturi’s mother and coach, was recognised as Best Coach of the Year for her role in guiding Lara’s development and supporting her progression to the international stage. 

International recognition of Albania’s progress 

A highlight of the evening was the attendance of Diego Züger, Co-CEO of Swiss-Ski, who congratulated the Albanian Ski Federation on its recent progress. 

Representing one of the world’s most established skiing nations, Züger acknowledged the progress made by Albania and highlighted the different challenges faced by countries developing skiing traditions. 

He also emphasised the importance of seeing more nations represented in international alpine skiing and welcomed Albania’s continued development within the sport. 

Growing visibility for skiing in Albania 

The evening also reflected on the increased visibility of alpine skiing in Albania during the past season. For the first time, World Cup competitions featuring Albanian athletes were broadcast nationally through a dedicated television programme, introducing the sport to a wider domestic audience. 

The federation also recognised the contribution of media partners, sponsors and supporters who have accompanied its development in recent years. 

Among the special recognitions presented during the evening was the Voice of the Slopes Award, awarded to Nick Fellows, Director of FIS TV, in recognition of his contribution to promoting alpine skiing and his coverage of Albanian athletes throughout the World Cup season.