Ski association ‘golden’ with comeback ski legend Hirscher for the Netherlands

Photo: ANP

The small skiing nation of the Netherlands welcomes one of the best skiers of all time with Marcel Hirscher. The Dutch Ski Association (NSkiV) confirms that the 35-year-old Hirscher will ski competitions under the Dutch flag from next season. He uses his double passport. The Austrian Ski Association previously approved the change of nationality.

Hirscher retired in 2019 after an impressive career. He won the overall World Cup eight times for Austria and achieved 67 victories in World Cup competitions. He also owns seven world titles and two Olympic gold medals. The slalom specialist has a Dutch mother and therefore also has Dutch nationality.

“We are delighted with Marcel’s choice and hope that this will be of great value for not only skiing, but all snow sports that fall under the Dutch Ski Association,” technical director Wopke de Vegt said in a press release from the NSkiV.

“I would especially like to have the opportunity to participate in competitions again, just because I enjoy it,” Hirscher said in the press release. “I have an excellent relationship with the Austrian federation and am grateful to them for everything we have achieved. This new project is best realized as a Dutch person.”