Saalbach ski world championships finish under budget

The 2025 Alpine Ski World Championships in Saalbach-Hinterglemm cost up to 4.5 million euros less than planned, ORF reported. The final bill came to between 33 million and 34 million euros, compared with a budget of 37.5 million.

Of the 15 million euros in funding from the state of Salzburg, between 1 million and 2 million euros will now be returned to the state budget. Sports councillor Martin Zauner of the Freedom Party said he wants to use some of the money to renovate the ski jump complex in Bischofshofen.

A scientific analysis found the championships generated 34.7 million euros in economic value for the region. About 175,000 spectators attended the events. The state said the region would also benefit over the longer term from infrastructure investments made ahead of the championships, including a new accessible town centre and walking and cycling paths.

Co-organiser Bartl Gensbichler said the event also brought new members to the local ski club. Some young people who volunteered at the championships have since become young race officials and continue to work on the mountain.