Anne
Winter sports editor
In 2019, Marcel Hirscher announced his retirement after many, many victories. But, now it looks like the 35-year-old is making a comeback. And that this time he will not be skiing for Austria, but for the Netherlands! Thanks to his mother, Hirscher has the opportunity to do this.
Comeback by Marcel Hirscher
Since his ‘retirement’, Marcel Hirscher has never stopped skiing at a high level. Hirscher trains and tests intensively in the snow for his own ski brand Van Deer. So even though he was officially retired, he doesn’t exactly act like one. Rumors have been circulating for years about a comeback for the eight-time overall winner of the World Cup. According to the latest information, he is now talking about it seriously. Marcel Hirscher is not wearing the Austrian ski suit again, but that of the Netherlands. According to rumors, Hirscher wants to fight for his mother’s home country.
Marcel Hirscher skiing for the Netherlands
For years, Marcel Hirscher has also been seen as a Dutchman, by the Dutch. He has a Dutch mother. So it is not surprising at all if he switches from the Austrian competition team to the Dutch one. That would be very special for our country!
Preparations made
The first steps for a comeback have been taken, Marcel Hirscher is taking preparations for the World Cup season in New Zealand. He will train here and also wants to participate in a few competitions. If he reaches a certain number of points here, he can continue his career at the highest level. The big goal is to start the Alpine Skiing World Cup in Saalbach.
Ski association statements
After a big fuss on Tuesday, the ÖSV (Austrian Ski Association) has now held a short press conference. The Tiroler Tageszeitung states that it has been confirmed that Hirscher may change nations for the coming ski season. According to the NOS, the Dutch ski association will issue a statement this afternoon.
Career Marcel Hirscher
Marcel Hirscher is a true skiing legend. He has won the overall World Cup title eight times. In addition, he has achieved 67 victories in World Cup competitions in recent years. In 2018 he participated in the Olympic Games in Pyeongchang, which resulted in gold in the giant slalom and the combination. He also won silver in the slalom event in Sochi.
Activities other than skiing
Anyone who has kept an eye on Hirscher knows that in addition to skiing, he also enjoys speed. He loves motocross and he also likes to push the limits in the car. In January, for example, he got into the unique Audi S1 Hoonitron.
