The International Ski Federation (FIS) announced the races would be held after the campaign opener in Sölden in Austria.

The two resorts, separated by a small net and located on either side of the Swiss-Italian border, will host World Cup downhill and super-G races for both men and women.

Planning is already in full swing and these speed events could be integrated into the World Cup calendar as early as the 2022-2023 campaign, the FIS said.

"I am very excited that we can embrace ideas that bring our sport forward and offer new possibilities," said FIS President Johan Eliasch.

"The concept of Zermatt/Cervinia as host is innovative. 

"It will not only allow us to implement the World Cup season from October until March without interruptions, but it will also strengthen the speed disciplines in our race calendar. 

"This will benefit our National Association, athletes, stakeholders and fans equally."

Eliasch added: "Another positive development is that Zermatt/Cervinia have offered to open training on an equal standing for all athletes three weeks prior to the race. 

"This is a great first step towards ensuring equal training opportunities for all athletes. 

"It will also contribute to reduce long distance travel to access training locations with a corresponding reduction of our carbon footprint."

Swiss-Ski President Urs Lehmann said the decision will address the lack of speed races on the calendar.

"The desire for more speed races in the calendar to have level playing field between speed and technical events has been addressed for years," he said. 

"Thanks to the altitude, Zermatt/Cervinia can host speed races early in the season and we can finally meet these demands."