The women's race starts in the onset of rain and is characterized by many crashes and the increasingly difficult terrain. A three-way battle developed between Alessandra Keller, Sina Frei and Linda Indergand. The top favorite Jolanda Neff had several problems, crashed and also had to make intermediate stops in the tech zone. On the very slippery surface, Neff was never able to intervene in the decision for the medals. Instead, Alessandra Keller from Niedwald stepped up the pace early on and was able to break away on her own. However, the two Olympic medal winners Sina Frei and later Linda Indergand managed to close the gap to Keller once again.

Keller breaks through years of dominance by Neff

So a trio went into the final lap of the championship race. Alessandra Keller attacked vehemently again at the start of this last lap, managed to pull out a small gap and ultimately came out on top ahead of Linda Indergand. Bronze goes to Sina Frei. This is Alessandra Keller's first gold medal at the national championships in the elite category. After six years of dominance by Jolanda Neff, Keller is benefiting from her current excellent form: "I knew before the race that I could be in contention for victory here. So I'm over the moon to have finally managed everything perfectly once again," said the overjoyed Alessandra Keller at the finish line.

Flückiger with start-finish victory

After the heavy thunderstorm at midday, the men's race turned out to be extremely physical on the drying track. In the absence of nine-time world champion Nino Schurter, Mathias Flückiger pushed the pace from the very first meter and was able to control the race from the front. Flückiger's Thömus teammate Vital Albin was also able to take up an early position and defend it to the finish. Bronze goes to Andri Frischknecht, who, like Vital Albin, repeats his medal win from the Short Track Championships a week ago.

For Mathias Flückiger, the victory in Leysin was also a liberating blow after a rather messed-up first part of the season: "I'm glad I was able to 'get away' right at the start and then ride my own pace," said Flückiger shortly after crossing the finish line. On the demanding course, it was important for him to have the competition under control so as not to make any unnecessary mistakes. "My situation was comfortable because I knew I had Vital behind me," he adds. "I'm proud to have defended the Swiss champion's jersey and to be able to ride with the cross on my chest for another year," says a visibly satisfied Flückiger, already looking ahead to the upcoming races.

The other titles in the various categories went to the following athletes:
U23 women: Ronja Blöchlinger
U23 men: Simon Walter
U19 women: Monique Halter
U19 men: Jan Christen
Masters: Andy Kläy

Results