Nordic Combined: Vinzenz Geiger Places Third in Sprint Show, Beaten by Riiber

Originally published in sportschau.de on February 01, 2025

Vinzenz Geiger finished third in the second race of the Nordic Combined Triple in Seefeld, following a dramatic cross-country skiing performance. After a compelling showdown in the long-distance race, the Norwegian duo claimed a double podium finish with Jarl Magnus Riiber taking second place.

In a candid post-race interview, Geiger admitted his frustration over his decision to attack too early on the hill; he acknowledged that staying in the pack a bit longer might have been a better tactic. Despite the setback, Geiger remains optimistic and is already looking forward to the next 12.5-kilometer race, promising to come back stronger.

The race saw a tight group of six leading competitors, including top names such as Julian Schmid – who, after a fast start, eventually dropped out of the lead group on the final kilometer – as well as Johannes Lamparter and Ilkka Herola. In contrast, Manuel Faißt and Johannes Rydzek suffered from challenging wind conditions during the jump, with Rydzek recovering from illness to improve his position from 14th to 12th. Other German athletes experienced drops in placement as well, ensuring that all seven German Nordic combined competitors remain in contention for the overall Seefeld Triple final, where only the top 30 will qualify.

The event is further overshadowed by somber news from the Norwegian camp, as Jarl Magnus Riiber, the record world champion and dominant figure of the past six years, announced that he will end his career after this season due to a severe case of Morbus Crohn. Despite his health challenges, Riiber continues to lead the overall standings this winter.

The Nordic Combined Triple in Seefeld, held annually since 2014, is a marquee event on the calendar of the sport. With competitions spread over three days – Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – athletes compete in multiple disciplines to be crowned the overall winner. A fourth title win for Riiber would have set a new record, surpassing that of his former idol Eric Frenzel.