Ski jumping
Planica instead of Garmisch: Eisenbichler’s unusual end to the year
Currently not in form: Markus Eisenbichler. photo
© Swen Pförtner/dpa
Markus Eisenbichler is in a deep sporting crisis. A German ski jumping legend fears that it will be difficult for him to get out of the performance hole.
The 72nd Four Hills Tournament will definitely take place without the long-standing top performer. Even for the national group, which allows additional athletes to take part in the home game, it is not enough.
Crisis a mystery
There is no end to the low in sight. The 32-year-old’s current crisis is also a mystery for ski jumping legend Sven Hannawald. “That’s a bit bitter,” the 2002 overall tour winner recently said on ARD. “Once he’s in his spiral, it’s incredibly difficult to get him out of there. Jumpers like him then try to use force, and then it gets even worse.”
In December, a sponsor with Eisenbichler advertised a ticket competition for the New Year’s competition. The federal police officer has not been part of national coach Stefan Horngacher’s A squad since the start of the season. He had recently made critical comments about the Bavarian.
The qualification takes place in Garmisch-Partenkirchen on New Year’s Eve (1.45 p.m./ZDF and Eurosport). The competition will take place on January 1st (2 p.m./ZDF and Eurosport).