We’re proud to spotlight the exceptional work of our sister organisation, Bay Media France, whose expertise plays a key role in elevating one of Europe’s most iconic winter sporting events.
Every December, the alpine village of Val d’Isère becomes the world capital of ski racing as it hosts the Critérium de la Première Neige, the opening round of the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup in France. Since its creation in the 1950s, the Critérium has embodied excellence, performance and passion, values that align with our commitment to quality and reliability.
Since 2022, Bay Media France has proudly partnered with this iconic event, bringing world-class visibility through bold, high-impact display solutions. We started strong in 2022 with 37 banners alongside the Club des Sports de Val d’Isère, expanded to 56 displays in 2023, and this year have smashed all previous records with 68 banners in collaboration with Val d’Isère Tourism. Discover how we help this prestigious ski event shine, capturing attention both on and off the slopes.
A Legacy Rooted in the Mountains
The story of the Critérium dates back to a bold idea from the Club des Sports de Val d’Isère, led by pioneers Louis Erny and Charles Diebold. In a time when alpine competitions began in January, they dared to organise a December event to attract elite athletes and position Val d’Isère as an international ski destination.
That vision paid off. From the 1960s onward, the French alpine team shone on the world stage, with stars like Jean-Claude Killy and the Goitschel sisters inspiring generations. The Critérium became a symbol of French skiing prowess and in 1981, even sparked the idea that would lead to Albertville hosting the 1992 Winter Olympics.
Today, the event stands as a celebration of sport, heritage and innovation, drawing the world’s top athletes and thousands of fans each year.
A Design Honouring History and Excellence
For the 2025 edition, Bay Media France collaborated with Val d’Isère Tourism to bring this proud legacy to life through a visually powerful banner campaign.
The 2025 designs reflect both the Critérium’s rich heritage and its forward-looking spirit. Dominated by black, white and red, the banners blend modern minimalism whilst beautifully demonstrating the event’s heritage. Each features the iconic Critérium eagle logo, with select designs showcasing striking portraits of ski legends such as Jean-Claude Killy, Christine and Marielle Goitschel, and Clément Noël.
Elegant typography marks key anniversaries: 70 years of the Critérium, 90 years of the Val d’Isère Sports Club and 100 years since the birth of Henri Oreiller, famously known as “The Acrobat” for his effortless mastery on one ski. Subtle diagonal lines and textured overlays evoke the speed and dynamism of alpine skiing, while the interplay of vintage and modern imagery celebrates both tradition and progress.
The Bay Media Touch: Precision in Every Condition
Delivering high-impact visibility in challenging alpine environments is no small feat, but it’s exactly what our display technology is built for.
Regularly exposed to snow, wind and sub-zero temperatures, Val d’Isère’s mountain conditions demand the most durable and reliable systems. Our banners maintain perfect tension, vibrant colour and structural integrity throughout the season, ensuring every message remains clear, confident and compelling, no matter the weather.
A Partnership Built to Last
From the heart of the Alps to the world stage, we are proud to support the Critérium de la Première Neige, a partnership that exemplifies the harmony between sporting excellence and display innovation. Year after year, we’re honoured to help world-class destinations like Val d’Isère look their best in every season.
Interested in elevating your next event or resort campaign? Get in touch with the Bay Media team to discover how our premium outdoor display solutions can work for you.