The 73rd Vierschanzentournee is set to captivate ski jumping fans around the globe as it returns for the 2024/25 season. This iconic event starts on December 28, 2024, and promises to deliver excitement and extraordinary performances by world-class athletes.
The tour traditionally kicks off at the renowned Schattenbergschanze in Oberstdorf, with the qualification taking place on December 28, followed by the first competition on December 29. The event then progresses to the Große Olympiaschanze in Garmisch-Partenkirchen for the New Year's Jump on January 1, 2025. The third stop is the challenging Bergiselschanze in Innsbruck on January 4, culminating at the Paul-Außerleitner-Schanze in Bischofshofen for the final competition on January 6.
Over the years, the Vierschanzentournee has become synonymous with winter sports excellence. The grand spectacle began its legacy back in 1953, and this year's edition continues to uphold its thrilling reputation. According to local reports, last year's champion Ryōyū Kobayashi from Japan will be defending his title against strong competitors like Germany's Pius Paschke, Andreas Wellinger, along with Austria's Stefan Kraft and Daniel Tschofenig.
Pius Paschke is particularly noteworthy as he has recently demonstrated outstanding form, topping the World Cup standings following multiple victories, including impressive performances at the home World Cup event held at Titisee-Neustadt.
Each of the four competition venues presents unique challenges. The Schattenbergschanze, newly renovated, recently recorded jumps of up to 143.5 meters, set by Norwegian Sigurd Pettersen. Meanwhile, the Große Olympiaschanze has been a staple since 1921, but has not seen a German victory for over two decades, with the last being Sven Hannawald's triumph back in 2002.
Austria's Bergiselschanze looms as the wildcard of the tournament, notorious for its fickle weather conditions, which can alter the outcomes significantly. This year's event will conclude at the Paul-Außerleitner-Schanze, the site where Kobayashi clinched his last overall victory without securing any individual event wins—a rare feat.
The media coverage of the Vierschanzentournee will be extensive, with live broadcasts on ARD and ZDF, which will share coverage of the event, along with Eurosport offering additional online streaming options. Fans can also catch all action via the JOYN platform.
Ticket sales for the event have seen high demand, and with reports indicating most seats have already been purchased, only limited availability might remain as the event nears. These tickets can be conveniently bought online for all four stops, ensuring fans have the opportunity to witness the drama and thrill live.
The event serves not only as a test of skill and courage among the competitors but also promises to be highly lucrative, with the overall champion walking away with 100,000 Swiss Francs, alongside additional earnings through individual event prizes, which are distributed to the top-performing athletes.
Given the backdrop of heightened competition this season, fans are left wondering: will 2024 be the year where Germany finally breaks its long wait for top honors? With Pius Paschke stepping up as the main contender, expectations continue to grow, following his dazzling performances leading up to the tour. The climate is ripe for thrilling jumps, nail-biting moments, and the semblance of overcoming obstacles, as ski jumping spectators prepare to root for their favorites.
Overall, as we approach the start of the Vierschanzentournee, ski jumping enthusiasts can expect nothing short of extraordinary. The four locations each bring their unique flair, and the rivalry among athletes promises exhilarating competitions during this winter sports tradition. The event truly embodies the spirit of winter sports, combining skill, athleticism, and passionate support from fans around the globe.
Mark your calendars and get ready to witness the world's best ski jumpers battling across four breathtaking venues. The Vierschanzentournee 2024/25 is set to deliver unforgettable winter sports action, and it’s one event not to be missed!