Ski jumper Geiger annoyed by new landing rule - "We're not figure skaters"

The ski jumping season has not even begun, yet controversy is already erupting due to a new landing rule causing a stir among athletes. Beginning with the World Cup season opener in Lillehammer on November 22, any jumper who fails to execute a clean landing will face a deduction of three points instead of the previous two.

Karl Geiger, one of Germany's leading ski jumpers, expressed his annoyance, stating, "We're not in figure skating or dressage. We want the furthest jump to win." Geiger is concerned about the increased emphasis on style points, fearing it would penalize athletes for what should primarily be a distance competition.

Markus Eisenbichler echoed similar sentiments, calling the new ruling "totally ridiculous" and asserting that judges will gain excessive control over scores. He noted that during jumps, it is extremely difficult to execute a perfect telemark landing, especially when flying over large distances.

Despite the criticism from some, Andreas Wellinger sees a positive aspect, believing that the changes will recognize beautiful jumps more than poor ones. Overall, reactions to the new rules reflect a blend of concern over fairness and differing opinions on how the sport should be judged, especially as the season kicks off.