Subdued anticipation for the Olympics in China: “Fishing in troubled waters”

“It’s supposed to be very cold and windy,” said biathlete Franziska Preuß, referring to the sparse information she has about the sports facilities in China and added: “To be honest, I don’t know yet whether I’m looking forward to the Olympics.” DSV boss Wolfgang Maier I also know “nothing” except that there are organizational problems – “whether accommodation or entry conditions – something changes every day.”

Since most of the test competitions have been canceled, many athletes are getting to know the Olympic courses with the help of photos and videos. “We are fishing in troubled waters,” said German national biathlon coach Mark Kirchner. Optimal preparation for the peak of many athletes' careers looks different. “You don’t really know where you stand,” said Kirchner. Skepticism and Corona concerns The Winter Olympians are also skeptical about the atmosphere at the competition venues around the metropolis - only local spectators are allowed, and they are not exactly known for their love of bobsledding, ski cross and the like. “I don't think the games belong where there is not that much interest in winter sports or where the passion is not there,” said ski racer Josef Ferstl. Beijing is certainly not the dream place for all winter sports enthusiasts, added biathlete and bronze medalist from Sochi, Denise Herrmann. Olympics in China: Many athletes are skeptical. © ANSA / YANNIS KOLESIDIS

And then there is the ongoing issue of vaccinations. According to the current status, unvaccinated athletes must go into strict quarantine for three weeks after entering the country. That would seriously disrupt their immediate preparation for the competitions. “Nobody wants to be quarantined, that’s clear. But that would never be a reason to say, “I’m not going there,” said Herrmann. “I don’t think the games belong there.” Ski racer Josef Ferstl Before the Winter Games take place in the Chinese metropolis from February 4th to 22nd, 2022, the athletes will first have to experience the normal World Cup winter. The ski racers will start this weekend in Sölden. “You have to approach the World Cups before that with just as much focus,” said Linus Straßer, who made it to the podium twice last season. The Olympics will then be a separate chapter - a very special one this winter.

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Subdued anticipation for the Olympics in China: “Fishing in troubled waters”

Unknown route and snow conditions, Corona requirements and the still simmering vaccination debate - a good 100 days before the start of the Olympic Games in Beijing, there are still many unanswered questions among winter athletes.

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