Marcel Hirscher Withdraws from Alpine Skiing World Cup and Winter Olympics

Marcel Hirscher, an eight-time overall World Cup champion, has officially announced that he will not be participating in the upcoming Alpine Skiing World Cup season or the Winter Olympic Games. Hirscher, who had been preparing for a competitive return after sustaining a cruciate ligament injury, confirmed that his recovery progress does not currently meet the rigorous demands required for top-level competition.

After sustaining a significant knee injury in December 2024, Hirscher's training and rehabilitation faced multiple setbacks. These included a mandatory two-week break around the Christmas period due to a calf injury, which further delayed his return to peak physical condition. Additionally, a viral infection in the autumn resulted in a three-week interruption, complicating his path back to competitive readiness.

Despite initial hopes of making a comeback in January, Hirscher assessed his current capabilities following a series of training sessions with elite skiers. He concluded that his speed and confidence on the slopes have not reached the standard necessary to compete effectively at the World Cup level. Hirscher emphasized his commitment to high performance and indicated that he would not return to racing unless he could compete at the standard expected of a former champion.

Due to the severity of his knee injury, Hirscher was unable to conduct any on-snow training during the summer, a critical preparation period for World Cup athletes. The cumulative effect of injuries and illness has resulted in an extended recovery timeline. Hirscher has stated that he will continue to train and monitor his progress, with the possibility of considering a return to competition in the following year if his condition improves sufficiently.

As a result of this decision, Hirscher will not participate in any World Cup races or represent his country in the upcoming Winter Olympic Games. His absence is notable in the alpine skiing community, given his achievements and previous dominance in the sport. Hirscher's decision underscores the physical demands and risks associated with elite winter sports, as well as the challenges athletes can face when recovering from complex injuries.

Hirscher's previous comeback attempt marked his return to professional skiing after a hiatus of over five and a half years. The extended layoff, coupled with recent health setbacks, has made it clear that a full return to competitive action will require further time and recovery. The skiing world will await updates on his rehabilitation and future plans as he continues his efforts away from the spotlight of international competition.