Unprecedented Disqualification of Stefan Kraft in Ski Jumping

Unprecedented Disqualification of Stefan Kraft in Ski Jumping

Stefan Kraft has faced an unexpected disqualification due to a noncompliant suit during the ski jumping competition in Oberstdorf. The Austrian jumper, who has frequently found himself on the podium this season, was unable to celebrate any achievement this time.

The news shocked the Austrian team, marking a historical first this season for Kraft, while non-compliance issues have typically affected American and Polish athletes.

After the first round, where Kraft achieved a distance of 203 meters placing him in 11th, it seemed a second jump would allow him to improve his position. Although he posted a better score, what transpired next led to disappointment for him and his fans. The defending world champion, alongside Kristoffer Erik Sundal from Norway, was disqualified for wearing a suit that violated regulations; the primary issue was improper permeability of the suit.

The disqualification ended the potential for any more medals for the Austrians, as they had not exited the podium for 24 consecutive World Cup events.

The victory went to Slovenia's Timi Zajc, who soared to a distance of 233 meters in the second round. Norway's Johan Andre Forfang placed second with a jump of 235 meters, while another Slovenian, Domen Prevc, completed the podium with a score of 231.5 meters.

The conclusion of the events in Oberstdorf brought an astonishing turn of events, breaking the impressive streak of the Austrian ski jumpers.