Austria continued its reign at the 2024-2025 Vierschanzentournee as the third event took place at the iconic Bergiselschanze in Innsbruck, captivating 22,500 enthusiastic fans. Local hero Stefan Kraft once again showcased his formidable skills, sealing his victory with two stellar jumps, culminating with his lead over compatriot Jan Hörl and Daniel Tschofenig.
At the end of the day’s competition, the results were electrifying: 1. Stefan Kraft (Austria), 273.3 points; 2. Jan Hörl (Austria), 271.9 points; 3. Daniel Tschofenig (Austria), 263.3 points; and worth noting, the best-ranked German was Pius Paschke, finishing eighth with jumps of 128.5 and 123.5 meters.
The tension was palpable as the event unfolded, with three Austrian jumpers battling closely for the win. A mere half meter separated Kraft and Hörl as they leapt for victory, with Kraft eventually overcoming Hörl by just 1.4 points. This match-up was both thrilling and exemplified the fierce rivalry among the locals. "Kraft or Hörl?" the crowd mused as both showed incredible jumps, with Kraft executing particularly well, scoring significant points for style.
Notably, Kraft's performance dazzled with not just distance but also style as he sailed through the air over 132.5 meters, securing solid scores from the judges. The elation on Kraft’s face post-competition was unmistakable as he later cheerfully remarked, "Im Bus gibt’s 'ne Runde Eierlikör," indicating plans to celebrate with his teammates.
The Austrian team once again demonstrated their dominance, cementing their standing not just at Innsbruck but within the Grand Tour, with all three of their leading jumpers within mere tenths of points of each other, keeping the competition fiercely alive and brewing excitement for the upcoming Bischofshofen meet.
Meanwhile, the German contingent encountered yet another disappointing performance, failing to mount significant challenges against their Austrian rivals. Team expectations were low coming to Innsbruck, and this latest round underscored the struggles they have faced throughout the tour. Pius Paschke achieving eighth place marked the best outcome for the German squad, as his earlier strong season had hinted at potential victories. He acknowledged the gap between his performance and the leaders stating, "Jeder ist seines eigenen Glückes Schmied. Die anderen springen einfach extrem gut aktuell," acknowledging the excellence displayed by the Austrians.
The disappointment was marked particularly for Karl Geiger, who, after finishing sixth in the previous Neujahrsspringen, failed to advance beyond the first round at Innsbruck, falling victim to numerous issues with his jump, including landing struggles which cost him precious points and moved him down to rank 34 overall.
With the stark reality of the standings sinking, coach Horngacher provided poignant insights, stating, "Die Tournee ist durch. Das werden die Österreicher ausmachen" acknowledging Austria's superior performances during this tour, resigning to the likelihood of their dominance continuing.
Despite these setbacks, some German athletes remain hopeful—the tournament isn't over, and the atmosphere around the remaining events remains electric. The crowd was lively, with fans mingling and enjoying food and drink, creating a spirited environment around the arena. Many rallied behind their representatives, hoping the German team could still turn around their fortunes.
With one more event left at Bischofshofen on January 6, fans are eager to witness who will take home the coveted title, and if perhaps any resurgence could shake up the current Austrian stronghold established during this year's Vierschanzentournee.
While Austria seems positioned for another triumphant finish, all eyes remain on the final jumps, where performances can pivot dramatically. Will the German team regain their footing, or will Austria continue to secure its dominance? Only time will tell as the competition marches forward.