Evert ten Napel is making his highly anticipated return as the ski jumping commentator this New Year’s Day, delighting many fans across the Netherlands. The iconic event, which takes place annually at the Garmisch-Partenkirchen ski jump, is cherished by viewers who gather to watch the jumps, often following festive gatherings from the night before.
This year, the broadcast has special significance. The Dutch public broadcaster, NOS, had recently decided to stop airing the ski jumping event, effectively ending this beloved New Year’s tradition for many. The airwaves seemed quiet after this news, which threatened the cherished tradition of watching ski jumping over New Year’s Day.
Fortunately, SBS6 stepped in just in time, acquiring the rights to air the ski jumping live from 13:45 to 16:30 CET. This last-minute deal allows viewers to continue their holiday tradition of watching ski jumping events, replete with commentary from the familiar and trusted voice of Evert ten Napel.
Ten Napel has been synonymous with ski jumping commentary for Dutch audiences for years, building his reputation as one of the country’s sports journalism icons. Returning to the commentary box at the Garmisch-Partenkirchen ski jump is more than just another gig for him; it symbolizes the continuation of countless viewers’ New Year’s rituals.
The event itself features high-flying athletes launching from towering ramps, their flight measured not just in meters but in heartbeats and cheers from the viewing public. The tension builds with each jump, especially with the precision and artistry required to perform these tricks and land safely.
The broadcast on SBS6 not only revitalizes the tradition for the Dutch audience but also highlights the cultivation of sports culture beyond just the physical performances. It weaves together community engagement, national pride, and festive celebration, especially at the year’s advent. Viewers can expect to share their reactions, cheers, and perhaps even disappointments just as they would for any national sporting event.
This year's broadcast is set against the backdrop of rising interest rates and economic concerns, factors influencing holiday viewing habits. Yet, as shown through their preparations, SBS6 has recognized the importance of not just sport, but tradition and community connection over these cherished few hours.
Beyond mere sports commentary, Evert ten Napel’s return brings with it nostalgia and echoes of past New Year celebrations for many fans. The voices of previous commentators have been replaced over the years, but Ten Napel’s absence was conspicuously felt among regular viewers who had looked forward to his insights and excitement.
With Ten Napel at the helm once again, viewers can expect the vibrant, enthusiastic commentary style he is known for, painting each jump not just as a score but as part of the theatrical play of the competition. His return is welcomed warmly by audiences who appreciate not just the sport but also the storytelling around the event, which makes these performances resonate even more.
So tune in on January 1st! The ski jumping won’t just be about the heights jumped, but the bonds strengthened and traditions celebrated on this New Year’s Day. It may be just another ski jumping competition, but for many, it is about the memories made, the traditions upheld, and the new scores added to the history of ski jumping.
This New Year’s Day, as the Netherlands gears up to once again cozy on their couches with oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts) and glasses of champagne, the joy of watching sports is not lost. The skies over Garmisch-Partenkirchen will once again be filled with flying athletes, and Evert ten Napel, the voice many associate with these high-flying leaps, will be there to narrate this thrilling spectacle, bringing the event to life for viewers at home.