Karl Geiger ended a three-month podium drought for German ski jumpers by securing third place at the World Cup in Oslo. His achievement was overshadowed by a manipulation scandal affecting the sport, leading to suspensions of several athletes, including Norwegians. Amidst the turmoil, the FIS implemented new regulations regarding suit usage. Despite the challenges, Geiger expressed joy over his performance, while his teammates also placed well. The women’s competition saw Nika Prevc continue her winning streak, with Selina Freitag as the top German in eighth.
Karl Geiger Breaks Podium Drought at Oslo World Cup
In an exhilarating turn of events, Karl Geiger marked the end of a three-month podium drought for German ski jumpers at the World Cup in Oslo. This achievement, however, was overshadowed by ongoing revelations and suspensions stemming from a manipulation scandal that has rocked the sport. Geiger secured a commendable third place, while his teammates Philipp Raimund and Andreas Wellinger also showcased their skills, finishing fifth and seventh, respectively.
Scandal and Suspensions Cast Shadow on Ski Jumping
As new regulations and suspensions unfolded, the joy of Geiger’s success was tempered by the escalating crisis in ski jumping. Before Geiger took to the skies, the International Ski Federation (FIS) announced alarming news regarding the manipulation scandal, leading to the suspension of additional Norwegian athletes during a training session. FIS race director Sandro Pertile confirmed, “There are findings that strengthen the suspicion of manipulation, resulting in the provisional suspension of three more athletes who were in Trondheim.”
Following the disqualification of top athletes Marius Lindvik and Johann Andre Forfang due to proven manipulation of their suits, the FIS took further action against former ski flying world record holder Robert Johansson, Kristoffer Eriksen Sundal, and Robin Pedersen. Their suits, along with those of their compatriots, were thoroughly examined, revealing further manipulations that the FIS has yet to disclose.
The gravity of the situation is underscored by Pertile’s statement, asserting that ski jumping has sustained considerable damage. In an effort to mitigate this crisis, the FIS introduced new rules requiring each jumper to use only one suit, which will be held by the FIS until shortly before and after each jump.
Despite the surrounding turmoil, the evening’s ski jumping competition witnessed the DSV eagles reclaiming a spot on the World Cup podium. Geiger expressed his delight, stating, “I am very happy. At the WM, I was so close in fourth place; now I didn’t expect it.”
Wellinger reflected on the bizarre nature of the day, sharing that he learned about the suspensions just after qualification. Meanwhile, Pius Paschke, who previously secured a podium for Germany in December, finished in 35th place, while Markus Eisenbichler, who announced his retirement, ended in 41st.
Adding to the day’s excitement, the women’s competition also took place in Oslo. Slovenian star Nika Prevc continued her winning streak, while Selina Freitag finished as the top German in eighth place. Record world champion Katharina Schmid encapsulated the mood, stating, “We can only jump and wait to see what comes out; it’s not optimal.”