In Klingenthal – New dad Stefan Kraft returns to the World Cup

Austrian triple world champion Stefan Kraft is back in the Ski Jumping World Cup this weekend in Klingenthal after becoming a father. The 32‑year‑old from Salzburg skipped the season’s opening stops in Ruka (Finland) and Wisła (Poland) to support his wife Marisa during the final days of her pregnancy. Mother and newborn daughter are doing well, and Kraft is ready to return to competition.

Kraft’s comeback triggers a small roster adjustment within the Austrian team. He takes over the World Cup spot from Maximilian Ortner, who will now compete in the Continental Cup to try to secure an additional quota place for Austria. Joining Kraft in Klingenthal are Daniel Tschofenig, Jan Hörl, Stephan Embacher, Manuel Fettner and Jonas Schuster.

Following disappointing team results in Ruka and Wisła, head coach Andreas Widhölzl ordered extra training sessions. The red‑white‑red jumpers completed quiet tune‑up jumps this week in Seefeld (Austria) and Planica (Slovenia). “It’s important to keep the focus on oneself and get out of this small dip as quickly as possible,” said the 49‑year‑old Tyrolean coach.