Martin Schmitt calls for a rules overhaul in ski jumping, questioning the telemark for safety

German ski jumping great Martin Schmitt says the sport needs to reform its rules—starting with the traditional telemark landing. Speaking on the “Die Flugshow” podcast, Schmitt questioned whether tradition should outweigh athlete safety. In his view, many serious knee injuries are not caused by the fall itself but by the landing mechanics required to execute a telemark.

Schmitt argued that the telemark forces a very unnatural, disadvantageous body position that limits the ability to absorb impact at the critical moment of touchdown. “What matters more—tradition or athletes’ health? If health comes first, we should seriously consider dropping this element,” he said.

The debate has intensified after two serious crashes at the pre‑Olympic test event in Predazzo, Italy. Canada’s Alexandria Loutitt tore her ACL, while Austria’s Eva Pinkelnig suffered a knee injury. In response, FIS announced steps to improve safety, with indications that women’s suits may be allowed slightly larger dimensions to enhance stability and control.

The ski jumping World Cup season is scheduled to begin on 21 November in Lillehammer and run through 29 March 2026. The Milan‑Cortina Olympic Winter Games are set for 6–22 February 2026.