24 apr 2024 om 09:15 Update: 25 min. geleden
Former top skier Marcel Hirscher (35) is making a sensational comeback after five years. It is remarkable that the Austrian wants to make his return under the Dutch flag.
The Austrian Ski Association confirmed the news on Wednesday morning, after several Austrian and Swiss media already reported Hirscher’s plans.
“We obviously deeply regret his decision to request a change of nation, but in the end we unanimously approved his decision,” the Austrian Ski Association said. The former top skier has not yet responded.
The slalom specialist has a Dutch mother and therefore also has Dutch nationality. In the past, Hirscher competed under the Austrian flag. Now he wants to play for the Netherlands.
World Cup is Hirscher’s main goal
Hirscher is considered one of the best skiers of all time. He retired in 2019 after an impressive career. He won the overall World Cup eight times and achieved 67 victories in World Cup competitions. He also owns seven world titles and two Olympic gold medals.
Hirscher’s goal would be to qualify for the 2025 World Cup in Saalbach, near his home in Austria. Hirscher does have to catch up in terms of points to return to the highest level. He wants to achieve those points in competitions in New Zealand next summer.
Hirscher is supported in his plans by energy drink giant Red Bull, with which he founded the ski brand Van Deer in 2019.
Tags: Austrian ski legend Hirscher return Dutchman years Sport
