Federica Brignone can extend her lead in the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup giant slalom standings ©Getty Images

Italy’s Federica Brignone will aim to extend her lead at the top of the International Ski Federation (FIS) Alpine Ski World Cup giant slalom standings at Kranjska Gora.

The Slovenian venue will stage two women’s races this weekend, beginning with the giant slalom competition tomorrow.

Brignone currently enjoys a lead of 61 points in the World Cup standings for the discipline over American star Mikaela Shiffrin.

Her advantage is set to grow, with Shiffrin having extended her leave of absence from the World Cup circuit following the death of her father.

“Our continued thoughts go out to the Mikaela, [mother] Eileen and [brother] Taylor as they deal with the incredible loss of their father and husband Jeff Shiffrin,” a statement from Shiffrin’s management team read.

“At this point we have no information to share about a return to Europe or a return to competition.

“We ask that you continue to respect the family’s privacy.”

Since 2013, Shiffrin has only previously missed a World Cup giant slalom or slalom event through injury.

The American currently heads the overall World Cup standings with 1,225 points, however Brignone can close the gap with success in Slovenia.

The Italian lies second on 1,080 points prior to the sixth giant slalom race of the season.

The World Cup event in Kranjska Gora will conclude on Sunday with a slalom competition.