Dietmar Nöckler's dreams for the future

At the World Cup in Dobbiaco in February, the Bruneck veteran wrote a piece of azure winter sports history with Italy's cross-country skiing relay: For the first time in around 17 years, Italy's men won a World Cup race. “An enrichment, a great success,” the 35-year-old reflects modestly.

Nevertheless: “Didi” is no longer a member of the senior national team; he trains mostly alone or with the police sports group. In order to continue to get a taste of the World Cup, Nöckler has to qualify again and again. He achieved this last season. And he wants to do that again this year.

It should start after Christmas He thinks the races after Christmas are realistic. “Initially only the senior national team will probably start in the World Cup. I would like to recommend good performances in the Italian Cup and then in the European Cup,” said Nöckler, who is still one of Italy’s strongest cross-country skiers in the classic style. The Tour de Ski would also be a goal. At the end of the year there will be a classic race over 10 kilometers, and Nöckler would like to be there. The preparation was good, he spent a lot of time on his bike and roller skis. He also feels in great shape. But the experienced cross-country skier knows that this doesn't mean much. “It's a strange sport, you can train well all summer and feel really good and then as soon as the first snow comes, everything is completely different again.”

Nöckler with his girlfriend Ilaria Debertolis.

In any case, he still enjoys sports. “I still enjoy running, the motivation is there. I also want to continue to improve. But the decision as to how long I stay is not mine alone. Of course, a lot depends on the results. If they are good, I can certainly continue if I want to,” said the man from Bruneck when asked whether it would be his last season. Sooner or later he will continue as a trainer or technician with the police sports group. That is already certain. It remains to be seen when exactly the time will come. “It’s also about what the needs look like. If the results aren't so good and the sports group needs a coach, the time comes sooner," says Nöckler.

Of course, he would prefer if he could still complete the 2025 World Cup. “That would of course be nice,” said the veteran. However, he doesn't waste much thought on the 2026 Olympics. Then “everything has to open up” for him. One way or another, a private highlight is still to come for Nöckler in the coming years. He will then marry his long-time partner Ilaria Debertolis, who ended her career in 2021.

Facts about the person Name: Dietmar Noeckler Birthday and place: September 29, 1988 in Bruneck Location: Palatinate Sports group: Police

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Dietmar Nöckler's dreams for the future

Dietmar Nöckler proved last season that he is far from being a thing of the past. The Pusterer doesn't want to think about the end of his career yet.

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