Comment: Ski Jumping Will Be Dead in Ten Years

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A Complex Picture

I want to share some thoughts about my fear for the future. It is a sad judgment, but I believe ski jumping is in danger of dying out.

Over the past years, there has generally been a lack of audience in the stadiums during Norwegian ski competitions. Here from a World Cup event in Holmenkollen last year.

Photo by Beate Oma Dahle / NTB

The Drift of a Nation

As I reflect on my youth in the 80s and 90s, I remember ski jumps being everywhere. My father was an active ski jumper when he grew up, and he would create jumps wherever we could. The thrill of ski jumping has always been part of my life; it was an arena filled with honor, and there were role models to look up to.

However, the narrative has changed. Today, when I attend a ski jumping event, I see fewer young people present, fewer new stars; the audiences are dwindling. The competition formats have become too complicated. The once-glorious sport of ski jumping has become local rather than national, lacking the draw that once filled stadiums.

We Can Save the Sport

I believe that ski jumping could still capture national interest again. While spectatorship is low in Norway, countries like Austria and Poland continue to fill venues for ski jumping competitions. As the new World Championships approach, I hope this can ignite new fervor for the sport.

If we don't simplify the rules for viewers and fans, then sadly, I fear that ski jumping in Norway will be dead in ten years. We must act soon to bring the fire back to a sport that deserves a brighter future. Let's hope to rally parents and inspire new generations to take part in this fascinating sport.