In Norway, Adam Małysz’s Actions Spark Major Reaction

There is a storm in Norway after Adam Małysz openly criticized Alexander Stoeckl – the very man who for years had built the strength of Norwegian ski jumping – now serving as the sports director in the Polish Ski Association. In an interview on TVP Sport, Małysz bluntly expressed his disappointment, remarking that “in Poland ski jumping is not a game, it is a matter of national pride,” and that he expected much more from Stoeckl.

Norwegian newspaper Dagbladet has taken note of the criticism, emphasizing that it is rare for a former ski jumping legend to verbally attack a sports director in such a public manner. The controversy has further fueled a nervous atmosphere in Poland, just over two weeks before the World Championships in Trondheim. Norwegian journalists recalled that Stoeckl, who previously coached the Norwegian team, left his position under less than amicable circumstances after losing the trust of his athletes.

The article also reveals that Adam Małysz may be feeling additional pressure from the state apparatus, with indications that President Andrzej Duda was present at competitions in Zakopane. With the recent World Cup event in Lake Placid behind them, the Polish team is set to compete in Sapporo with a leaner squad featuring Paweł Wąsek, Kamil Stoch, Maciej Kot, and Kacper Juroszek.

The ongoing debate raises questions about leadership and performance within ski jumping, as well as the intersection of sports and politics in Poland. Further developments are expected following the upcoming World Championships in Trondheim.