Austria’s Ski Team Eyes World Cup Glory and 2026 Olympic Success
Austria's ski team is looking towards a promising season, with improved performances expected following the World Championships. Hermann Maier, a legendary skier, is optimistic about the team's prospects, including the potential for winning the overall World Cup and success at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina.
Last season marked a turning point for Austria's ski team. Lukas Feurstein, Stefan Eichberger, Vincent Kriechmayr, and Raphael Haaser delivered impressive results, setting the stage for this season. Hermann Maier, a two-time Olympic champion, believes that Marco Odermatt is beatable and that Austria could win the overall World Cup. He is particularly optimistic about the speed team's return to sustained success.
Marcel Hirscher, a six-time World Cup overall champion, is approaching this season strategically. After recovering from an ACL tear, he could make his comeback on November 22 in the slalom at Gürgl. Maier still sees Hirscher as a capable winner, despite his injury. Meanwhile, Marco Schwarz and Raphael Haaser are seen as potential contenders for the overall World Cup title. The team's strong start in Sölden, with Schwarz, Brennsteiner, and Haaser securing top finishes, further boosts confidence.
Looking ahead to the 2026 Winter Olympics, Austria has several medal prospects. Alpine skiing stars like Vincent Kriechmayr, Raphael Haaser, Manuel Feller, and Marco Schwarz are among the favourites. In ski jumping, Daniel Tschofenig, Stefan Kraft, and Jan Hörl are top contenders. The new ski mountaineering mixed event also presents opportunities for medals with Paul Verbnjak and Johanna Hiemer.
Hermann Maier's optimism is well-placed, with Austria's ski team showing great potential for the upcoming season and the 2026 Winter Olympics. The team's strong performances and medal prospects in various disciplines make Austria a serious contender for success in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo.
