Julien Lizeroux: “I love the folkloric side of skiing in Switzerland”

After 21 years at the highest level, Frenchman Julien Lizeroux (41 years old) decided to put away his skis in January 2021. Winner of the Adelboden slalom in 2010, the skier from La Plagne took the time to answer questions from blue Sport before the Chuenisbärgli events. He notably evokes his memories linked to the Bernese Oberland resort as well as the breathtaking Marco Odermatt. Interview.

Julien Lizeroux, you retired in January 2021. What has become of you since that date?

“I enjoy life and my family to the fullest. I still ski a lot in winter: downhill skiing, hiking, cross-country skiing…»

Do you miss ski racing?

“I don’t miss competition. On the other hand, I am always a little nostalgic for group life on the circuit and the adrenaline of the start!”

Have you been keeping a close eye on what’s happening on the World Cup circuit?

“Yes, I watch all the races on television and I am a big supporter of French skiers.”

This season, Marcel Hirscher, who has since injured his knee, and Lindsey Vonn have decided to come out of their sporting retirement. How did you perceive their return to the circuit? Do you find their decision courageous or rather “kamikaze”?

“Knowing that these are skiers who have won everything in their careers, I find that it is quite a challenge to return to the highest level, especially after many years of absence. I found Marcel’s injury particularly unfair and I hope that he will quickly be able to regain full strength. As for Linsdey, we could imagine that she would quickly return to a very high level of skiing after having dominated the circuit for many years. I just wish him to have as much fun as possible.”

This weekend, the World Cup will stop in Adelboden for a giant and a slalom. What is your fondest memory in the Bernese Oberland resort?

“I was lucky enough to win the slalom in 2010 and it was a day that really stuck in my memory. I particularly liked the ride in the gondola above the stands. I love the folkloric side of skiing in Switzerland and especially the entry into the last wall with the song “ ça plane pour moi ” by Plastic Bertrand.”

On the contrary, can you share with us a less pleasant anecdote related to this station?

“I don’t have any bad memories in Adelboden. Instead, I remember some really funny anecdotes during my first slalom there in 2000 with the piles of manure along the old ski lift, and the giant’s starting hut where we waited in the stable next door. »

With Clément Noël, Steven Amiez and Léo Anguenot, the French team has great cards in hand to shine on the Chuenisbärgli track. What do you think?

“There is a very good dynamic at the moment in the French technical group. Clément Noël and Steven Amiez ski very, very fast in slalom, just like Paco Rassat. It’s a little more complicated in giant but Léo Anguenot has shown what he is capable of and he will drag the whole group in his wake. It’s nice to see new faces on the podiums. The French are efficient on demanding and difficult slopes. The Chuenisbärgli is one of those legendary tracks on the World Cup circuit and they have all the weapons to shine there… Come on, Les Bleus!”

Finally, a quick word about Marco Odermatt. What does he inspire you?

“Marco is a super nice guy, smiling, kind, approachable and available. It feels good to see that you can dominate your sport and still be a normal person. He does a lot of good for skiing in general, and it’s a joy to see him express himself on skis. Always happy for friends. Everyone loves it, and for me it’s the mark of the greatest champions!”