Climate protest at slalom in Gurgl: Video shows Kristoffersen’s tantrum

Not just the ÖSV triple victory – Manuel Feller won the World Cup slalom in Hochgurgl ahead of his teammates Marco Schwarz and Michael Matt – was a topic on social media on Saturday. As reported, the second round had to be interrupted for a good ten minutes before the start of the five best runners after climate activists had gained access to the finish area. Six members of the “Last Generation” sprayed orange paint on the snow and held up banners that read “Listen to the Climate Council.” Fans acknowledged the action with boos and snowballs were occasionally thrown.

• Also read: ÖSV triple victory in Hochgurgl: Feller wins slalom ahead of black and matt

Supervisors restrained Kristofferson

After a short time, security forces took the demonstrators out of the area reserved for athletes while the ORF continued to broadcast the scenes. Apparently all of this couldn’t happen fast enough for a racer: the TV images also showed how the Norwegian Henrik Kristofferson was furious, swearing and gesticulating wildly, trying to get towards the emergency services and activists. Several supervisors held the 29-year-old back. The video recordings spread like wildfire on social media on Saturday and were heatedly discussed there.

The ORF commentators spoke of an “important concern” but also emphasized that the slalom in Obergurgl is a “green event”. “ARD” expert Felix Neureuther showed little understanding for the activists’ appearance. “If I were standing at the start now, I would be so upset,” said the 39-year-old, but at the same time called for a peaceful dialogue.

Immediately after the interruption, Kristoffersen’s teammate Alexander Steen Olsen had to go onto the slopes; he fell back to 18th place. Loic Meillard, who started after him, was eliminated and Gstrein also had problems. In his opinion, the activists definitely influenced the outcome of the race. Benjamin Raich also took the same line when he was asked by ORF about the protests. “The activists simply don’t think far enough,” says the ex-ski racer in an interview:

Criticism, ridicule and encouragement

On Twitter, users reacted with criticism, ridicule, but also encouragement. “Henrik Kristoffersen should concentrate on skiing and get his temper tantrums under control instead of fighting with climate activists. Unbelievably unsympathetic,” wrote one user. Another said: “Maybe Kristoffersen can win an overall World Cup in boxing.” Another, however, demands: “Gold for Kristoffersen.”