Marcel Hirscher Announces Comeback, Will Compete for the Netherlands

After a five-year retirement, the eight-time World Cup champion switches allegiance from Austria to his mother's homeland.

Marcel Hirscher, a legendary Austrian skier, is making a surprising return to competitive skiing representing the Netherlands.
The Dutch Ski Association welcomes Hirscher, highlighting the potential boost to winter sports enthusiasm in the Netherlands.
Hirscher's move is facilitated by the Austrian federation's support despite their regret over his departure.
The skier plans to participate in lower-level races to qualify for the World Cup circuit and aims for the next season's world championships in Austria.
Hirscher's decision comes amid broader trends of athletes changing national teams in skiing, inspired by changes in eligibility rules.