Dolomiti Superski to Pay €30 Million in Refunds and Vouchers After Antitrust Probe

Italy's antitrust authority has closed an investigation into Dolomiti Superski, a consortium of ski lift operators, after securing €30 million (about $35 million) in compensation for skiers. The watchdog had accused the group of anti-competitive practices by coordinating ski pass pricing across a vast area of the Dolomites, covering 1,200 kilometres of slopes.

The consortium, which operates in 12 major resorts including Cortina d'Ampezzo—a venue for this year's Milano Cortina Winter Olympics—will offer compensation to skiers who purchased daily or multi-day passes during the 2022/23, 2023/24, and 2024/25 seasons. Skiers can choose between a voucher worth 30% of their spending on a future pass, or a cash refund of 20%.

Dolomiti Superski welcomed the decision. Chairman Andy Varallo said an information campaign will launch soon, with an online platform available by mid-October. He also noted that certain discounts and concessions offered up to last season will remain in place for the next five years.

However, the consumer association Assoutenti criticised the settlement. President Gabriele Melluso argued that the scheme penalises those who prefer cash and encourages further purchases. He also warned that compensation will be paid only until the fund runs out, meaning some eligible skiers could receive nothing.

The case highlights the rising cost of skiing, driven by expensive artificial snowmaking and equipment. Assoutenti noted that the price of a Dolomiti Superski day pass increased by 28.4% between 2021 and 2025, making the sport increasingly exclusive.