Austrian Ski Jumpers Shine - Four Austrians in Top Five in Lillehammer

Austrian Ski Jumpers Shine
Four Austrians in Top Five in Lillehammer

The ÖSV (Austrian Ski Federation) athletes delivered a stellar performance at the ski jumping event in Lillehammer. While Germany’s Pius Paschke celebrated victory, four Austrians, Daniel Tschofenig, Maximilian Ortner, Stefan Kraft, and Jan Hörl, finished in the top five positions, taking places second through fifth.

Austria’s ski jumpers made a sensational start to the new World Cup season with this first individual competition. Only the outstanding jump of 138.5 meters by Paschke in the second round prevented a full Austrian podium sweep.

Daniel Tschofenig took second place, while Maximilian Ortner managed a surprising third place finish. Stefan Kraft, the defending overall World Cup champion, secured fourth place, and Jan Hörl rounded out the top five after winning the qualification round.

Maximilian Ortner joined the team last minute to replace the injured Daniel Huber and expressed his disbelief at his surprising success during an interview with ORF, stating, "I don't know what's happening, it's indescribable. It's a dream come true. You couldn't ask for a better start to the season."

Stefan Kraft, despite missing the podium, was content with his performance, stating, "I've made the best jump in a long time, and it felt just right. This is already a huge win for me today—regardless of what comes next."

All seven Austrian jumpers finished within the top 15 following the first round, showcasing their extraordinary teamwork and depth in skill. Jan Hörl, happy with his fifth place result, highlighted the strong performance of the entire team, praising Ortner's impressive debut.

With the World Cup season underway, the Austrian ski jumpers are definitely ones to watch out for this year!