David Chappellet, an ambitious and talented skier from a small-town background, joins the U.S. ski team with dreams of becoming an Olympic champion. Upon his arrival in Europe, he quickly clashes with both his teammates and the team's head coach, Eugene Claire, due to his arrogant and self-centered attitude. Determined to prove himself, David trains rigorously, often pushing himself to the limits, with his eyes firmly set on winning gold. His raw talent and relentless drive begin to earn him recognition, but his individualistic mindset creates tension within the team dynamics.

As David's success on the slopes grows, so does his desire for fame and glory, overshadowing personal relationships and sportsmanship. He becomes increasingly isolated, focusing solely on his racing career at the expense of connecting with others around him. His romantic entanglement with Carole, a sophisticated European woman, further complicates his life as he struggles to balance personal desires with professional ambitions. The weight of expectations, both from himself and those around him, mounts as David approaches the pinnacle of his career, leading to crucial moments that will define his path as a skier and as a person.