Marcel Hirscher breaking away from the Austrian Ski Association

Internal conflicts and overexertion may have contributed to the decision of ski racer Marcel Hirscher to part ways with the Austrian Ski Association.

As of July 1, 2023, the most successful ski racer of all times is said to no longer be part of the Austrian Ski Association (ÖSV).

Sources within the ÖSV confirm that there have been serious internal differences of opinion between Hirscher and the association in recent years.

Hirscher's father and manager, Ferdinand Hirscher, has repeatedly criticized ÖSV's training methods and the high training intensity. He had accused the association of causing a burnout in his son.

Marcel Hirscher, who has won a total of eight overall World Cups, retired from professional ski racing in 2019.

In 2020, he returned as a consultant to ÖSV. However, this cooperation was not extended at the end of the 2022 season. Since then, there have been rumors that Hirscher is completely withdrawing from the association.

The ÖSV has not yet commented on the reasons for the split. However, it is speculated that, in addition to the internal conflicts, the extremely high training intensity, which Hirscher had to endure for many years, may have contributed to his decision.

Hirscher is known for his relentless training and his perfectionism. His father had repeatedly criticized the fact that his son had always had to train at full throttle even when he was ill. Nevertheless, Marcel Hirscher always emphasized that he owed his success to the association.

After his retirement, Hirscher repeatedly stated that he wanted to stay connected to skiing. He is currently working on several projects, including a ski racing school for children and young people.

It is not yet known whether Hirscher will continue to be involved in ski racing after his departure from the ÖSV. However, it is considered unlikely that he will completely turn his back on his former sport.