At the Vierschanzentournee 2024/25, the challenge intensified as the event progressed to Innsbruck on Saturday. Despite hopeful beginnings, Pius Paschke's aspirations for the overall victory were dashed, marking the German team’s continued struggle against their Austrian rivals.
The third competition of the prestigious ski jumping tournament unfolded with high expectations, especially for Paschke, who entered as one of the leading competitors. Unfortunately, after completing his jumps, Paschke found himself placing eighth, significantly trailing behind the leaders. With his chances of clinching the coveted golden eagle now gone, the German contingent faced reality as they looked toward the final event scheduled for Bischofshofen.
Stefan Kraft of Austria emerged triumphant, achieving his first victory on the Bergisel platform, and solidified his leading position with this success. His impressive jumps measured 131.5 and 132.5 meters, earning him a total score of 273.3 points. This performance allowed him to surpass fellow Austrian competitors Jan Hörl and Daniel Tschofenig, who placed second and third, respectively, with scores of 271.9 and 263.3 points. Interestingly, this marks Kraft’s inaugural win at this venue, showcasing his remarkable consistency throughout the competition.
Though the German team was represented by Paschke, who scored 250.3 points with jumps of 128.5 and 123.5 meters, it wasn’t enough to break through the stronghold established by the Austrian jumpers. Despite expressing confidence heading to the event, his performance highlighted not just his individual struggle but also the broader challenges faced by German ski jumpers this season. “The others are just jumping extremely well currently; for me, it’s slightly missing,” Paschke admitted, reflecting the competitive spirit he and others maintain amid difficulties.
Paschke's fellow teammate, Philipp Raimund, also experienced challenges, finishing seventh overall but unable to provide the breakthrough the team was hoping for. Meanwhile, Andrea Wellinger and Karl Geiger, who were once seen as potential podium contenders, faltered as well. Wellinger finished 13th and Geiger, dealing with more issues indicating his lack of form on the Bergisel hill, managed only 124 meters before being eliminated after the first round.
“Very, very bitter, but you have to digest it,” noted expert Sven Hannawald, reflecting on Geiger’s struggles. With the German team unable to secure positions high on the leaderboard, the question of the overall victory increasingly leaned toward their rivals from Austria.
The atmosphere during the event remained electric, with approximately 22,500 spectators gathered to witness the thrills and dramas of ski jumping at the iconic location known for its challenging conditions. For the Germans, hopes were particularly high before the competition, primarily placed on Paschke, the World Cup leader, who had stood strong throughout the preliminary rounds.
Paschke, who initially led the World Cup standings, saw his chances evaporate quickly as consistent performances from Austrian jumpers overshadowed him. This season has seen a remarkable resurgence for Austria, prominently displayed through Tschofenig’s strong performances, leaving the Germans questioning their competitiveness. The feeling of desperation among the German team was palpable as they navigated the uphill battle of recapturing the glory of past champions.
After the Innsbruck competition, the next phase will move to Bischofshofen, where the season’s champion will be determined. The pressure is mounting, and the dynamic of the tournament indicates Austria’s dominance, setting the stage for what could be another illustrious chapter for their ski jumping legacy.
Both Paschke and Raimund, along with their teammates, must rise to the occasion during the final competition and reclaim some dignity for their national team, which has historically held strong aspirations for podium success. With the competition wrapping up, the focus will shift to reflecting on the lessons learned this season, especially as the Vierschanzentournee’s bright and proud history weighs heavily on the hopes of the German jumpers.