Big Surprise about Former World Champion!

Surprise in the German Team!

The German ski jumpers are looking forward to the World Cup opener in Lillehammer, Norway. The DSV has surprised everyone with the squad nomination.

Markus Eisenbichler is back on the squad for the World Cup opener in Lillehammer.

The German ski jumpers are making their comeback in the World Cup opener in Lillehammer, Norway, with an unexpected lineup. According to an announcement by the DSV on Tuesday, Markus Eisenbichler is returning to the German team.

The 33-year-old had lost his spot during the 2023/24 season and had to prove himself in the Continental Cup. He did not participate in any World Cup jumps last season and missed the Four Hills Tournament for the first time since 2012.

Now, the six-time ski jumping world champion is eagerly looking forward to being back on the team. "I have a great desire to return; my anticipation is enormous," said Eisenbichler back in October. In the meantime, the ski jumping star had even considered retirement.

Ski Jumping Surprise: "Eisi instead of Schmid"

As ski jumping legend Martin Schmitt revealed shortly before the team announcement, Eisenbichler secured his return to the DSV Eagles' team by winning against Constantin Schmid for the last spot.

"He jumped his way into the opening team and got the additional start spot from the Continental Cup that was originally earned by Constantin Schmid last season," explained Schmitt. "The two had a little showdown during their last training sessions. Markus prevailed, and this will surely give him a lot of confidence. That was very important for him," Schmitt stated in an interview with sport.de.

DSV Nominates Seven Jumpers for the World Cup Opener

Besides Eisenbichler, the DSV has nominated six other jumpers for the World Cup opener on November 23 in Lillehammer.

Along with Andreas Wellinger, Pius Paschke, Karl Geiger, Stephan Leyhe, and Philipp Raimund, five jumpers on the team finished at least in the top 25 of the overall World Cup rankings last winter.

Additionally, Adrian Tittel is making his debut with the World Cup team. The 20-year-old earned an extra spot at the opener by finishing third in the last Junior World Championships.