Alpine skiing: Dürr and Straßer: Germany’s medal contenders at the World Cup

Alpine skiing
Dürr and Straßer: Germany’s medal contenders at the World Cup

Ski racer Lena Dürr could win a medal at the World Cup. photo

© Piermarco Tacca/AP/dpa

The three-time Olympic champion Maria Höfl-Riesch counts Linus Straßer and Lena Dürr among the greatest German hopes at the Ski World Championships, which begin on Monday.

The three-time Olympic champion Maria Höfl-Riesch counts Linus Straßer and Lena Dürr among the greatest German hopes at the Ski World Championships, which begin on Monday.

“Both are having a strong and, above all, consistent season and are definitely medal candidates,” said the 38-year-old of the German Press Agency.

Above all, the focus is on Dürr from Munich at the high point of the season in the French mountains. The 31-year-old has already made it onto the podium four times this season, and most recently won the first slalom World Cup of her career at the World Championship dress rehearsal in Spindleruv Mlyn. “A curse and a blessing at the same time,” said Höfl-Riesch, with a view to the increased expectations for the World Cup.

Straßer (30) is also missing a World Cup medal in his collection. With two podium finishes this winter, the technician has moved into the group of favourites. “He drives really aggressively and on the offensive every time. Linus has become bolder,” said Höfl-Riesch, praising the Munich driver’s upward development.

From this Monday until February 19, a total of 13 titles will be awarded – six each for women and men and one for the team event. After the combination, the speed disciplines are scheduled first and then the technique disciplines in the second week.

dpa

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