FIS | Armbruster aims to seal first title as women celebrate large hill milestone in Oslo

Oslo will witness another milestone in the development of Nordic Combined this weekend with the first women’s large hill competitions in the Viessmann FIS World Cup.

The Holmenkollbakken HS134 will host the final two events of the women’s World Cup season - a Gundersen on Saturday, 15 March and a Compact event on Sunday.

While the women will take the spotlight, the men will also have their competitions in Oslo. Jarl Magnus Riiber (NOR) looks to solidify his status as a dominant figure while aiming for a record sixth overall title, having recently won multiple World Championship medals.

Nathalie Armbruster is keen to make history as the first German woman to claim the overall title in Nordic Combined. At just 19 years old, she's made a remarkable impact in her season, highlighted by three victories and consistent podium finishes throughout the year, surpassing expectations as she balances her sport with academic commitments.

In terms of previous champions, Norway has dominated the women’s World Cup, with Gyda Westvold Hansen winning in the last two seasons before Ida Marie Hagen clinched the title last year.

However, with Hagen currently struggling in standings this season amidst fierce competition, Armbruster holds a significant lead heading into the final events.

Armbruster reflects on her journey, stating that her current results were better than expected, especially during her final school year. She looks forward to the milestone competition in Oslo and aims to break the Norwegian stronghold in the women’s World Cup.

With a historical first on the horizon, the excitement in Oslo will not only mark the growth of women’s Nordic Combined but also showcase fierce competition as Armbruster seeks her target at the World Cup level while the men aim for closure in their season.

Facts and Figures

• Oslo will host the first-ever women’s large hill competitions in the FIS Nordic Combined World Cup, furthering the sport's development.
• Armbruster aims to clinch an overall title in a field dominated by Norwegian competitors over the last few years.
• Competing alongside Armbruster, the men’s side will also conclude with their events in Oslo before the final in Lahti later in March.
• The Gundersen and Compact events will provide dramatic conclusions for both gender events in a city that is rich in Nordic sports tradition.

Stay tuned for the weekend events beginning with the preliminary rounds this Friday and culminating on Sunday.