Narvik 2029
The championship is the world’s 2nd largest winter sports event after the Winter Olympic Games, and now it is time for the world to experience the event with unique arctic surroundings in Northern Norway, Narvik!
Like many other success stories, the history of an Alpine World Championships in Narvik started as a wild idea. Exactly who had the original idea is difficult to pinpoint, but once the seed was planted, the plans quickly materialized.
The dream of hosting an Alpine World Championship in Narvik and Northern Norway grew into a nationwide movement, with all of Northern Norway rallying behind Narvik as a future host. With this momentum, the bid was submitted, resulting in the Norwegian Ski Federation appointing Narvik and Northern Norway as Norway's candidate for the 2027 World Championships in 2018. Narvik’s bid received much praise but did not succeed in securing the 2027 event. However, the city used the time following the rejection to gain valuable event experience, setting its sights on a new bid for 2029.
Thor Hushovd, Ragnhild Mowinckel, Tove Moe Dyrhaug, and Kjetil André Aamodt erupt in cheers at the FIS conference in Reykjavík in June 2024, as the Norwegian delegation is chosen to host the 2029 FIS Alpine World Ski Championship.
FIS
At the FIS conference in Reykjavík in June 2024, it was announced that Narvik will host the Alpine World Championships in 2029, triumphing over Soldeu (Andorra) and Val Gardena (Italy). As one of the leading alpine nations, it is finally Norway's turn to host this prestigious championship. The stunning backdrop of mountains and sea will offer unique and breathtaking experiences, capturing images that have never been showcased in this context before. With towering peaks, fjords, Arctic light, and steep courses descending towards the ice-blue sea, these scenes will give viewers goosebumps, making this a World Championship unlike any other.
Northern Norway is united and proud to host this event, with immense pride and honor in the opportunity. The Alpine World Ski Championship in Narvik will not only be a thrilling competition but also an unforgettable celebration for athletes, spectators, and TV audiences alike.
Athletes
Nations
Competition days
Meter altitude difference
Volunteers
Beds
TV stations
Camera positions
Accredited communications professionals
Live spectators
Thrilling moments
The Most Spectacular Ski Championship Ever
The Alpine World Championships are the second-largest winter sports event, only surpassed by the Winter Olympics. Most ski destinations are located near small villages in traditional mountain regions. In addition to having a world-class ski resort, the city of Narvik offers an extra dimension with its proximity to the sea. Mountains, sea, and city create a unique trinity, providing spectacular backdrops for both visitors and the millions who will follow the event on TV and social media.
The town of Narvik adds an extra dimension with its proximity to the sea, perfectly complementing its world-class alpine ski slopes.
Narvik 2029
A Project That Highlights the Arctic
Northern Norway is at the center of the Arctic. Climate change, and particularly the changes we observe in the Arctic regions, is a highly relevant issue. The Narvik World Championships aim to not only be the most spectacular ski event ever but also to use the momentum it creates to place an even stronger focus on the challenges the Arctic faces. More importantly, it will serve as a role model for future events. The Alpine World Championships in Narvik will be the most sustainable and environmentally friendly sports event ever held.
An Exceptionally Compact Event
In alpine terms, Narvik is a large city. However, for all other purposes, it is small, with all necessary facilities located close to the ski area. Most visitors will be able to walk from the city center to the World Championship arena at Narvikfjellet, and the award ceremonies will be held downtown. A large portion of the accommodation needs will be met using modern cruise ships docked in Narvik Harbor. Electric shuttle buses will transport accredited personnel and spectators to and from the venue.
Narvik’s close-knit layout allows visitors to easily walk from the city center to the World Championship arena at Narvikfjellet.
Narvik 2029
An Event with Strong Regional and National Support
The event has unanimous and broad support both regionally and nationally. Northern Norway's political spheres, organizations, cultural life, businesses, and local population are united and enthusiastic about the World Championships in Narvik. The Norwegian Ski Federation, the Norwegian skiing community, the government, and the Norwegian state stand firmly behind the project and believe it is high time that the World Championships are hosted by the world's best alpine nation.
A Project with Significant Ripple Effects
The city of Narvik has big ambitions. The goal is to become the leading winter sports destination in the Arctic and a natural destination for winter tourists. At the same time, the city aims to enhance its attractiveness by ensuring a good and inclusive urban environment that is economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable. The World Championships will strengthen the destination's identity, patriotism, and livability. The event will serve as a showcase for important industries such as tourism, energy, seafood, and aquaculture. The expansion of the ski resort will contribute to stable operations and offer significantly better and broader services for both locals and visiting ski tourists for many years to come.
With dreams of becoming the Arctic’s top winter sports destination, Narvik sets its sights high for the future.
Rune Dahl
A Catalyst for Alpine Skiing Development in Norway
A home World Championship always serves as a strong motivator for athletes. For Norway, one of the world's leading alpine nations, the Narvik World Championships will be a catalyst for the development of talented alpine skiers. The majestic Narvikfjellet, which after its expansion will be one of the world's most spectacular alpine resorts, will become a power center for the future development of Norwegian alpine talents. Narvikfjellet will host major and attractive races both before and after the World Championships.
A Model of Sustainability
The focus on environmental sustainability is increasing, demanding innovative, smart solutions. The Alpine World Championships in Narvik will be the most sustainable winter sports event ever held. We aim to set a standard for how such events should be carried out to minimize the ecological footprint. This event will inspire other organizers worldwide and show that sports events can also contribute to a sustainable future.
Narvik’s streets buzz with celebration as locals and visitors unite for this grand event.
Rune Dahl
A Grand Celebration
Northern Norway has repeatedly shown that its people are enthusiastic when invited to a celebration. Through numerous events, both before and during the championship, we will create a celebration for locals, athletes, and visiting spectators. The Narvik World Championships will be an experience that is both physically felt and visually enjoyed. The arena production will be action-packed, the city will be decorated, and the ceremonies will inspire. This will be a citywide celebration!
A World-Class Event in Terms of Media
An Alpine World Championship garners significant international media attention. Around 30 nations will broadcast the event live on TV, and journalists from all major skiing nations will come to Narvik. New generations of media consumers expect innovative broadcasting formats and interaction, while we will also cater to viewers accustomed to traditional TV broadcasts.
Journalists from 30 nations gather to showcase the intensity and thrill of the Alpine World Championship in Narvik.
Torje Kosmo Karlsen
A Financially Solid Project
The scale of the Alpine World Championships makes the event costly. Both the event execution and infrastructure expansion require large investments, which in turn demand a realistic financing model. The event will be funded through a grant from the International Ski Federation (FIS), support from the Norwegian government, and the municipality of Narvik. The Alpine World Championships in Narvik will be carried out in a financially responsible manner.