An exceptional champion and dominant figure in global alpine skiing, Marco Odermatt embodies the pursuit of excellence grounded in discipline, passion and resilience — values that resonate deeply with those of EPFL. Much like the work carried out in our laboratories, performance is the result of a demanding process that combines scientific rigour, innovation and a constant drive to push boundaries.

EPFL had the honour of welcoming Marco Odermatt to award him an honorary doctorate from the School, recognising his exceptional career and outstanding contribution to his field.

This event also offered a unique opportunity to hear his inspiring perspective and to discover how research at EPFL is transforming sport in tangible ways — from motion analysis and next-generation equipment to performance tracking technologies and immersive experiences.

As a five-time gold medalist at the Junior World Championships, Marco Odermatt made a lasting impression in Davos in 2018 – that of a future dominant force in the world of alpine skiing. He had previously graduated with honors from the Engelberg Sports High School and earned his high school diploma; he made his World Cup debut in 2016 at the age of 18.

A skilled Giant Slalom specialist who is equally at home in the Super-G and Downhill, Marco Odermatt won his first overall World Cup title in the 2021–22 season. This laid the foundation for a streak that continues to this day: he has won the big crystal globe five times in a row – in addition to eleven discipline titles.

Thanks to his strong work ethic, he has also become a three-time world champion and the most successful Swiss skier in Olympic history during this time: He followed up his gold medal in the giant slalom at the 2022 Beijing Games with two silver medals and one bronze medal at the 2026 Milan/Cortina Games. Over the years he has hardly ever been injured.

Thanks to his long-standing partners, he continues to make progress at every level, and his consistency led him to become a five-time winner in the Lauberhorn Downhill and the Giant Slalom at Chuenisbärgli in Adelboden during the 2025–26 winter season. With 54 World Cup victories, Marco Odermatt is now only behind Marcel Hirscher (AUT, 67) and Ingemar Stenmark (SWE, 86) – and has with 28 years still a long way to go.

• Welcome Address, Anna Fontcuberta i Morral, President of EPFL
• Awarding of the Honorary Doctorate to Marco Odermatt
• Fireside Chat, with:
  • Marco Odermatt, Alpine Ski Racer
  • Mathieu Fauve, Head of Research and Development Ski, Stöckli Swiss Sports AG
  • Véronique Michaud, Associate Professor, EPFL
  • Allegra Magnetti, EPFL Alumnae
  Moderator: Pascal Vuilliomenet, Sportech Initiative Coordinator at EPFL
• Q&A