German Ski Jumpers Stumble in Final Rehearsal Before World Championships
Sapporo, Japan – The German ski jumpers delivered a disappointing performance in their final World Cup event before the upcoming World Championships. Andreas Wellinger, Germany’s highest-ranked finisher, managed only ninth place in the competition held in Sapporo, Japan.
Wellinger’s jumps of 129 and 121.5 meters fell short of the podium, extending the German team’s victory drought to over two months. The last German triumph came in mid-December when Pius Paschke topped the podium in Titisee-Neustadt.
Paschke, who also led the overall World Cup standings at the time, has since experienced a significant decline in form. He failed to qualify for the second round in Sapporo, finishing a disappointing 31st. The day before, he placed 23rd, his top result among the German contingent coached by Stefan Horngacher.
Ryoyu Kobayashi of Japan dominated both competitions, claiming victories in the individual and team events. The 28-year-old edged out Norway’s Marius Lindvik and his compatriot Johann Andre Forfang to secure the weekend’s top spot.
In the overall World Cup standings, Austrian Daniel Tschofenig maintains his lead after his triumph in the prestigious Four Hills Tournament. With the season drawing to a close, the top position is destined for an Austrian. Tschofenig, Jan Hörl (currently second), and theoretically even Stefan Kraft (third) remain in contention for the coveted Crystal Globe.
Disappointing Results for Germany
Germany’s performance in Sapporo marked a setback in their preparations for the World Championships, which will take place in Trondheim, Norway from February 26th to March 9th. Wellinger’s ninth-place finish was a far cry from the medal aspirations of the German team.
Paschke’s struggles have been particularly concerning, given his impressive form earlier in the season. His recent performances have raised questions about his ability to regain his top form in time for the World Championships.
Austria on Top
Austria’s dominance in the overall World Cup standings is a testament to the nation’s strong ski jumping program. Tschofenig’s consistency and Hörl’s impressive performances have put Austria in prime position to secure the coveted Crystal Globe.
While the German team may have stumbled in their final World Cup rehearsal, they still have time to regroup and prepare for the upcoming World Championships. With the competition fast approaching, all eyes will be on Germany to see if they can turn their fortunes around and challenge for podium finishes in Trondheim.
