As with every spring, the ski world enters its annual reshuffle. With the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic Games approaching, both athletes and brands are reevaluating strategies and making key adjustments. This transitional phase is marked by contract renewals, gear changes, and fresh partnerships all aimed at gaining a competitive advantage ahead of the next Olympic cycle.
Here’s a look at some of the most noteworthy moves ahead of the upcoming winter season:
Linus Strasser Moves to Head
One of the standout changes this off-season is the switch of Germany’s Linus Strasser to Head. The 32-year-old, who earned a slalom bronze at the 2025 World Championships in Saalbach, departs Rossignol after nearly a decade. Head’s Racing Director Rainer Salzgeber called him “by far the best German technician” and a great fit for the brand.
“With the Olympics coming up, I realized it was time for change,” said Strasser. “Head made a strong impression during testing I felt immediately comfortable with both the gear and the team. It’s the right moment to take a new direction.”
Linus Strasser
Strasser, already a Slalom World Cup runner-up, is looking for greater consistency as he eyes Olympic success.
Daniel Yule and Raphael Haaser Join Atomic
After a 19-year run with Fischer dating back to his early teens Swiss slalom veteran Daniel Yule is making a significant shift to Atomic. With 17 World Cup podiums and 7 wins under his belt, Yule is seeking renewed momentum as he builds toward Milano-Cortina 2026.
Also joining Atomic is Austrian skier Raphael Haaser, who comes off a sensational season where he claimed World Champion honors in giant slalom and silver in Super-G. The powerful Austrian now becomes a key figure in Atomic’s elite “Redster” team.
Van Deer Expands Roster
Van Deer-Red Bull, already home to stars like Henrik Kristoffersen and Timon Haugan, is adding more firepower with Joan Verdú, AJ Ginnis, and Max Franz. Verdú switches from Head, Ginnis leaves Fischer, and Franz returning to competition brings experience in the speed disciplines. All three are expected to add depth and podium potential to the growing Austrian-based team.
Katharina Huber Signs with Völkl
Austria’s Katharina Huber is starting a new chapter with Völkl after parting ways with Fischer. Looking to establish a stronger presence on the World Cup tour, Huber aims to rise within the technical ranks with her new setup.
Neja Dvornik Joins Rossignol
Slovenia’s Neja Dvornik has made the move to Rossignol after competing with Fischer. A reliable slalom racer within the top 30, Dvornik is hoping that the switch will help her break through to higher placements.
Billy Major Links Up with Head
British slalom skier Billy Major is now part of Head’s team, reuniting with countryman Dave Ryding. Formerly with Fischer, Major’s move aligns with Head’s strategy to strengthen its presence in technical events and build on its British successes.
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