Markus Eisenbichler, a six-time ski jumping world champion, seeks redemption after a disappointing last season where he didn’t complete a single World Cup event. With renewed passion for the sport, he aims to rejoin the German squad for the upcoming World Cup in Lillehammer. However, he faces challenges, including a knee issue and a controversial new scoring rule that he believes undermines fair competition. Eisenbichler remains determined to reclaim his place atop the sport despite setbacks and frustrations.
After a tough season marked by disappointment, Markus Eisenbichler is determined to reclaim his position in ski jumping. The six-time world champion has reignited his passion for the sport he loves, despite facing significant challenges.
“I can almost smell the snow again,” Eisenbichler shares with enthusiasm. The 33-year-old athlete is eager to get back into competitive shape after a winter that didn’t go as planned. Following a serious fall and moments of contemplating retirement, he’s now focused on a successful comeback.
Last season was particularly challenging for Eisenbichler as he didn’t compete in any World Cup events and missed the prestigious Four Hills Tournament for the first time since 2012. Reflecting on the past year, he explains, “A lot went wrong—personal issues, a painful knee, and a dip in form.” To recharge mentally, he embarked on a retreat through the scenic Lofoten Islands in northern Norway.
Now, six months later, Eisenbichler feels rejuvenated. While his knee still gives him occasional trouble, he reassures, “I can manage that now.” His primary ambition is to secure a spot on the German team for the World Cup that kicks off on November 23 in Lillehammer, Norway. However, that goal isn’t guaranteed.
Conflict with National Coach
National coach Stefan Horngacher remarks, “If he shows strong performance in training, he’ll have a chance.” He cautions, though, that if Eisenbichler isn’t quite ready, he’ll be on the list for the upcoming tour, which begins in Oberstdorf on December 29.
A year ago, Horngacher had criticized Eisenbichler for prioritizing his police training over skiing. At the recent fitting for the winter season, Eisenbichler defended his choice. “I know it wasn’t the most effective way to prepare, but it’s crucial for my future,” he explained.
Now, with his sights set squarely on ski jumping, Eisenbichler recently placed seventh at the German Championships on October 12. He expresses, “I still love jumping. I’m not ready to walk away from it just yet.” Last year, the thought of retirement crossed his mind when he struggled to qualify for the second round of the Continental Cup.
Frustration with New Scoring Rules
Successful competitions in the Continental Cup reignited his competitive spirit, especially with the World Championships in Trondheim, Norway, on the horizon. “What happened last year is behind me,” he states confidently.
However, one major issue is weighing on his mind: the new scoring regulations that emphasize landing technique. Under the revamped rules, judges will deduct more points for failing to execute a proper telemark landing. Eisenbichler finds this change frustrating. “It gives judges more power, and you can get penalized for long jumps,” he explains. “I believe it’s unfair; the best jumper should always win, but now, even if you perform the best, you might not end up on the podium.”
As these new standards apply universally, Eisenbichler must adapt or risk falling short. If he doesn’t make the World Cup team, another round of the Continental Cup awaits him, starting December 7 at the Olympic ski jumps in Beijing. Just two years ago, he secured fifth place and earned bronze as part of the team, a feat that still feels memorable yet distant as he strives to return to form.