Marcel Hirscher, Austrian Skiing Legend, to Make World Cup Comeback for Netherlands

Marcel Hirscher, the Austrian skiing legend who retired in 2019, has announced his plans to make a stunning return to the FIS Alpine World Cup circuit next season. In a surprising twist, the 35-year-old eight-time overall World Cup champion will be representing the Netherlands, his mother's home country, instead of Austria.

Hirscher, who holds dual Austrian and Dutch nationality, cited his love for the sport and the desire to support his Van Deer-Red Bull Sports brand and teammates as the primary reasons behind his decision. The move will allow him to compete on the Van Deer skis that he helped create with his sponsor, Red Bull, which was not possible while representing Austria.

The Austrian Ski Federation (ÖSV) has approved Hirscher's request to switch to the Dutch Ski Association (NSV), acknowledging his immense contributions to skiing and the internationality of the sport. "We tried to offer Marcel the best possible conditions to continue his career," said ÖSV president Roswitha Stadlober. "But we respect his decision and wish him all the best for his future in the Netherlands."

Hirscher plans to participate in lower-level races in New Zealand in August 2024 to secure the required FIS points to qualify for the World Cup. His main goal is to compete in both slalom and giant slalom events at the World Championships in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria, in February 2025.

Why this matters: Hirscher's comeback marks the return of one of the greatest skiers in history and is expected to generate significant excitement and interest in the sport. His decision to represent the Netherlands, a country with no mountains, also highlights the growing internationality of skiing and the potential for athletes to compete under different flags.

The Dutch Ski Federation expressed delight at Hirscher's choice, with general director Adriaan Schipper describing him as a "global icon" and an "inspiration for all skiers and winter sports enthusiasts in the Netherlands." Hirscher's former coach, Patrick Riml, confirmed that the Austrian has been training all season and is determined to compete at the highest level once again.

Hirscher's comeback follows that of another Red Bull athlete, Norway's Lucas Braathen, who recently announced his return to competitive skiing under the Brazilian flag. The 2024-25 World Cup season is expected to begin in late October, by which time Hirscher will be older than any man or woman who has won a World Cup race in his primary events of slalom and giant slalom. Despite the challenges ahead, Hirscher remains focused on his preparations and is eager to inspire a new generation of Dutch skiers with his remarkable skills and unparalleled achievements in the sport.

Key Takeaways

• Retired Austrian skiing legend Marcel Hirscher to make comeback, representing Netherlands.
• Hirscher, 35, cites desire to support his Van Deer-Red Bull brand as reason for switch.
• Hirscher plans to compete in slalom and giant slalom at 2025 World Championships in Austria.
• Comeback highlights growing internationality of skiing, as another Red Bull athlete returns under Brazil.
• Hirscher aims to inspire new generation of Dutch skiers with his skills and achievements.