For Hirscher: Dutch Federation Negotiates with FIS
Will Marcel Hirscher make his World Cup comeback in 2026 with a wildcard? Negotiations are currently underway.
Whether and when Marcel Hirscher will return to the Alpine Ski World Cup is still unclear. What is certain is that the 37-year-old from Salzburg is currently doing everything for his comeback.
Last winter, Hirscher did not compete in a single race, as he did not feel 100 percent after tearing his cruciate ligament in December 2024.
He stated to LAOLA1 in June 2026 that he was surprised by the lengthy healing process: "It is quite surprising how long it takes."
Hirscher's comeback fueled by passion: "I have my trophies" >>>
Wildcard? Dutch Federation Talks with FIS
It is quite possible that Hirscher will be at the start of the 2026 World Cup opener in Sölden (October 25). However, whether this will happen with a wildcard remains uncertain.
In May, reports circulated that Hirscher would be stripped of his wildcard >>>
However, according to "Krone", no final decision has been made. The Dutch Federation, for which Hirscher has been competing since 2024, is reportedly negotiating with the FIS for a wildcard. A decision is not expected before September.
No Slalom without a Wildcard?
According to the report, Hirscher does not depend on another wildcard for a start in the giant slalom. In slalom, however, the situation is unclear.
If a skier is equipped with a wildcard, they receive a comparatively better start number - right after the top 30 - and do not have to start at the end of the field.
Hirscher already made use of this wildcard during his comeback in 2024, when he competed in three World Cup races in Sölden, Levi, and Gurgl before tearing his cruciate ligament.
