Hirscher comeback

Neureuther: “If he can manage that, …”

Marcel Hirscher's old companion and friend Felix Neureuther can't take anything away from the criticism of Hirscher's wild card and considers his return to be "right, important and good". But Hirscher has to tune the material perfectly. "If he gets that right, then he can race at the front," believes Neureuther.

Hirscher is due to take part in the World Cup opener in Sölden this weekend and return to the ski circus after five years. Neureuther cannot understand the criticism of the former ski dominator's comeback. "We need exactly these stories, we need these protagonists. Especially for skiing, after such a long break - which has offered great highlights with the Olympic Games and a European Football Championship - this media attention is crucial to focus on the upcoming winter," says Neureuther in an interview with the "Augsburger Allgemeine".

"Marcel is in top shape"
The wildcard rule annoys many, but Neureuther sees it differently: "The criteria for getting this wildcard are so difficult. And everyone who fulfills the criteria deserves it based on their previous performances." Despite the long break, Neureuther has high hopes for the 35-year-old eight-time overall World Cup winner. "Marcel is in top shape, probably fitter than ever before."

Hirscher is competing with his own ski brand Van Deer. He still has to find the ideal set-up for World Cup races. "If he gets that right, then he can race at the front," believes Neureuther.