Controversial Japanese Record Jump: "The Wind Was Wild"

Controversial Japanese Record Jump: "The Wind Was Wild"

Ski jumping star Ryoyu Kobayashi has reflected on his record jump of an incredible 291 meters, emphasizing the wild wind conditions that characterized the event. The jump, which took place in Iceland, has not been officially recognized by the FIS yet.

In an interview with Eurosport, Kobayashi recalls, "That was something completely different. The hill was naturally shaped and the wind was wild." Although the jumps on the specially prepared monster jump in Iceland were challenging, he still reminisces fondly about that day’s conditions.

"The landing area was well smoothed out by the staff, so the landing itself wasn't icy, and there were no problems," which made him feel secure. However, he admits that the jump and the landing placed considerable strain on his legs.

Record Not Officially Recognized

For future attempts to surpass this distance, Kobayashi offers some tips: "I think it would be ideal to have about ten members for such a project and turn it into a kind of competition."

Kobayashi soared 37.5 meters further than the former world record held by Stefan Kraft in Vikersund, but Kraft remains the officially recognized world record holder since the jump in Iceland did not meet FIS approval, and only jumps at official competitions are counted as valid records.