After a postponement due to difficult weather conditions, the Nordic Combined World Cup returns to the large hill in Klingenthal (GER) on 21st – 22nd January 2023, after two weekends on the normal hills of Ramsau (AUT) and Otepää (EST).
With its Hill Size 140 the Sparkasse Vogtland Arena is the second biggest hill on the World Cup calendar behind Ruka (FIN / HS 142) and known for its often windy and tricky conditions.
Therefore, the athletes will need to show confidence and withstand the sometimes-rough circumstances to reach a top position.
After a double-victory of Johannes Lamparter last season, Klingenthal is now ready for two exciting Individual Gundersen competitions of the men. Due to the demanding cross-country course, also strong skiers have a good chance to reach the podium. With World Cup leader Jarl Magnus Riiber not on start, due to an infection, all eyes will be on his Norwegian team mate Jens Luraas Oftebro, who is currently second in the Overall ranking.
For Germany, attention will be on Overall 3rd Julian Schmid, who clinched victory at the last competition in Otepää and is looking to capitalize on his advantage on home soil, just like Vinzenz Geiger who returns to the World Cup stage after being absent in Estonia.
With two second places in 2022, Kristjan Ilves is another podium candidate, just like Ryota Yamamoto, who is currently the owner of the blue bib as Best Jumper.
Thanks to the organizer’s great commitment despite the adverse weather conditions, fans can now look forward to two exciting competitions in the Vogtland region with a one-week delay.
