Ammann’s last hurrah?

For Simon Ammann it is the twelfth (!) Nordic World Championships. But in Planica he had to pass an internal team qualification for the first time. The four-time Olympic champion, who started the season late after a long break last summer, was not considered a seed by the coaches. Only Gregor Deschwand was sure of the starting position for the race on the small hill.

But Ammann brings all his experience. On Thursday, the 41-year-old buys the final World Cup ticket with his three training jumps. Just like the third of the 2019 World Cup, Killian Peier. And – surprise – 19-year-old Junior Remo Imhof, who has never competed in the World Cup. Dominik Peter, who must now hope to beat his teammates in another internal qualifier for the big hill, is at a disadvantage.

At Ammann, the first thing to do is breathe a sigh of relief. The scenario of being outdone by Imhof, who is not even half his age, did not materialize. Even if he said the day before, “If four others on the team are better, then they have to jump. That’s okay with me.”

But now he can attack again on the small hill. The Toggenburger wants to survive the qualification and hopes for a top 15 place. The 2007 world champion is still ambitious, but he no longer wants to push himself to the limit.

However, the desire to jump has not changed. It’s just “too exciting” to let go. There is a good chance that this World Cup will be his last big hurrah. But then again, he doesn’t seem to be on a farewell tour. Amman leaves it open. Like last time.

Source : Blick