Another step closer to a Ski Jumping World Cup in the US

FIS Race Director Walter Hofer traveled to the United States this week in order to participate in a press conference at the US Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame in Ishpeming, where the possibility of carrying out a Ski Jumping World Cup in the USA in the near future was the top issue.

“Bringing an event back to North America has been a priority for us,” Walter Hofer said at this press conference, where he and the Governor of the State of Michigan, Gretchen Whitmer, addressed policy and business leaders. During her remarks, Governor Whitmer especially pointed out the importance of the sports and such major events for tourism in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

After funds for the necessary renovations of the two hills in this region, in Iron Mountain and Ironwood, were appropriated, a World Cup event could be held in Michigan already in 2021, if everything goes according to plan. This would end a long dry spell: The last World Cups in Iron Mountain were held in 1996 and 2000.

The hill on the Copper Peak in Ironwood could even become the world's largest facility where Ski Jumping is possible year-round after the renovation.

“I’m pleased to see this commitment to bring world-class ski jump competition back to Michigan after a 21-year absence. This is truly a transformational opportunity for the entire state and our nation. This almost 15-year gap since the last World Cups in Park City is far too long for our liking and we look forward to bringing the great sport of ski jumping back onto our home turf,” said Bill Demong, executive director of USA Nordic.