The alpine slopes have long been a family affair for the Swiss skiing siblings. The rise of Loic Meillard and his sister Melanie Meillard in the World Cup circuit has turned out to be quite a story. With Melanie’s top-10 World Cup finishes and Loic’s Junior World Championship victories, the two have become a force on the alpine scene, adding to Switzerland’s rich skiing legacy. However, their journey began when the siblings made their World Cup debut. 

Growing up in a skiing family with a former speed skier as their father, both Loic and Melanie have the skiing acumen in their genes. Thus, they could not resist stepping on the icy realm at tender ages. Since then, the siblings have been constantly pushing each other to new heights. The sibling duo has left their mark on the technical disciplines of slalom and giant slalom. Yet, this season, the Meillard family story faces an unexpected setback.

Loic Meillard to miss season opener at Soelden owing to devastating injury

The 27-year-old brother of Melanie Meillard, who was looking forward to the season opener in Soelden, had to forfeit his place in a shocking turn of events. Last Sunday morning, Loic Meillard while skiing into Soelden suffered an unfortunate blow on his back. Loic had been eagerly preparing for the giant slalom and had done everything possible to overcome the injury. But just hours before the race, his back pain intensified, making it impossible for him to compete, and forcing him to withdraw from the Soelden season opener. 

The Swiss-Ski Federation shared the unfortunate news officially. And immediately it was clear that Loic’s withdrawal would leave a gap not only in the Swiss team but also in the Meillard family’s legacy on the slopes. Moreover, the decision to sit out would be especially difficult for Loic Meillard, considering his recent successes and aspirations for the season. His performance at the Saalbach-Hinterglemm World Cup last year solidified his status as a top contender, and he was ready to bring that momentum to Soelden. 

Withdrawing from the season opener was indeed a tough call for the Swiss athlete. Missing the opener meant losing a crucial opportunity to establish his place early in the season. However, he had to prioritize his long-term health and playing potential over this event.

The Meillard siblings had each been on parallel paths in their careers. From their early childhood, they have supported one another through victories and challenges. Melanie, who has always considered Loic an idol and guiding figure, might also be affected by her brother’s setback. However, for Melanie, this season would be an opportunity to uphold the family’s reputation on the World Cup stage, although without her closest ally by her side.

Parents and ‘fast genes’ became the driving force behind Meillard siblings’ World Cup quest

For the Meillard siblings talent on the slopes is more than just a personal gift, it’s a quality that has just been inherited. They grew up in a family where skiing seems to run in the veins. But adding to that, the Meillards’ parents played an instrumental role in shaping their journey from snow-enthusiastic kids to World Cup contenders. In an interview with. Ski Racing Melanie and Loic credited their parents for providing them with whatever they needed, whether through advice, emotional support, or the sacrifices that allowed them to pursue a demanding sport.

Loic Meillard stated, “When we were kids, they supported us by just coming ski with us and giving us tips. Then for sure supporting us with the financial part at all times, following us to races, and helping us at training.” He further added, “Also mentally, when it was not good or when it was good…” 

The Meillard parents also relocated from Neuchatel to Heremence to build their children’s athletics careers. While the siblings were asked from where they inherited the ‘speed genes’, Melanie candidly reflected, “The genes, they come from my dad. He did speed skiing. My mom wasn’t into competitive skiing.”

While the season opener at Soelden would move forward without Loic, his spirit and ambitions must remain unshaken as he is yet to showcase more of the Meillards’ skiing prowess. However, this setback of a star player like Loic Meillard throws light on the physical toll that skiing as a sport can often take. Despite this disappointment fans would wait eagerly for the Swiss skier’s return to the alpine slopes.