Around four weeks ago, an explosive media report caused an uproar in the ski jumping scene: According to this, the traditional New Year’s jumping at the 75th edition of the Four Hills Tournament was in serious jeopardy because there were financial differences between DSV and the Partenkirchen Ski Club. But these have now been removed from the world.
The “Bild” reported at the time that the Partenkirchen ski club, which organizes the New Year’s ski jump, was demanding significantly more than the low seven-figure sum from the German Ski Association that it had received so far. In addition, there is the income from ticket sales, but Partenkirchen also has to provide the infrastructure. The ski club, which makes a significant amount of money from the event through TV contracts and sponsors, demanded an additional 30 percent.
But now the association and organizers have agreed that the event is no longer in danger. “We are pleased that, after intensive and constructive discussions, we were able to find a common and viable solution for organizing the New Year’s competition,” emphasized DSV board member Andreas Schlütter in an interview with “Bild”. The 53-year-old added that they had managed to “solve the outstanding issues together.”
Ski jumping: There were two tour alternatives
“It was always crucial for us to take responsibility and focus on what unites us: the future of New Year’s ski jumping and the special importance of this traditional location for international skiing. That’s why we are pleased that the traffic lights are now green and we can focus completely on the sporting preparation again,” continues Schicker happily.+
According to the tabloid, alternatives had already been considered. Accordingly, there was a second competition in Oberstdorf, where the tour traditionally begins. The inclusion of a new location was also discussed, and “Bild” names Klingenthal as a possible stop. However, due to the great distance, this would have been a “huge logistical challenge,” it is said.
The fact is: Garmisch is elementary for the Four Hills Tournament. The New Year’s competition has even more tradition and recognition value than the competitions at the other three locations.