The secretary general of the International Ski Federation is happy with the progress that 2009 World Championship hosts Val d'Isère have been making.

"I was very, very impressed by the presentation which was given to us by the World Championship organisers," said Sarah Lewis.

"The progress made these last six months is palpable. The success of the men's World Cup downhill last February has obviously given confidence to the organisers."

The build-up to the 2009 World Championships has been tarnished by constant arguments within the organising committee, leading high-profile personalities such as former ski champion Jean-Claude Killy to resign from their positions.

Concerns over accommodation for the event continue with organisers saying some journalists may have to stay in neighboring Tignes while the accreditation centre will be situated outside Val d'Isère.

The media centre is due to be completed by the summer.

The Val d'Isère delegation tried to reverse the slew of bad publicity by pointing out there would be free access and travel for spectators, as well as environmentally-friendly transport.

Eurosport