The advantage of Granerud over Kubacki in the general classification of the World Cup is already 258 points. Even if the Norwegian had not decided to go to Lake Placid in the USA, where the first duet competitions in the history of the World Cup and two individual competitions would take place, still no one would take away the leader’s plastron from him.
Graneruda’s bold strategy. He would withdraw from the World Cup for one weekend
There will be no shortage of Graneruda in the United States, but there is another interesting scenario related to the jumper and the tactics of managing subsequent starts in the World Cup. The Norwegian daily “VG” reported on its website that the Norwegian staff in the case of Graneruda may consider canceling the trip to Rasnov.
Two competitions are planned in Romania – another duet competition and only one individual competition (on the weekend of February 18-19). The move would not cause the Norwegian much damage, so the staff is to consider restful training and rest at home. – We do not know yet what will be decided – says for “VG” director of the Norwegian team Clas Brede Braathen.
Stoeckl: I doubt we will go to Rasnov with the same squad as for the World Cup
Is this actually a possible scenario for the Norwegian staff? – With the plan of preparations for the world championships in Planica, we will wait for what the competition in Lake Placid will bring – announces the Norwegian coach, Alexander Stoeckl, in an interview with Sport.pl.
When we ask if the Norwegians will skip Rasnov, he answers more clearly. “We’re not thinking of missing out on these games. However, I doubt that we will go there with the same train as to Planica – the Austrian explains to us.
In Romania, Granerud once took a victory. It can be hot again
In favor of such a solution is not only the fact that only one individual competition is planned in Romania. This is the last competition, and in such cases the International Ski Federation (FIS) usually puts more pressure on the jumpers in terms of equipment and scares with frequent, in-depth inspections.
Two years ago, before going to the world championships in Oberstdorf in Rasnov. German Markus Eisenbichler was also disqualified.
Thurnbichler to let go of Rasnov? This could be an opportunity for Kubacki
Besides, Granerud isn’t the only one who might consider such a scenario. “We have to think about whether we might be missing something.” Right now the plan is we’re going to Willingen and Lake Placid. Theoretically, we can leave the competition in Rasnov. There is only one individual competition and it would be rational – said the coach of Polish ski jumpers, Thomas Thurnbichler.
In the case of Granerud’s absence, Dawid Kubacki’s withdrawal from the World Cup in Rasnov would be a loss of a chance to make up many points in the general classification. Although his situation in the fight for the Crystal Globe is getting more and more difficult, it would be a shame to let it go completely. Later, the jumper may regret it. – In his case, we have to go weekend after weekend. He is fighting for the Crystal Ball, so we must make rational and adequate decisions. We will have to adapt to the situation we find ourselves in – assessed Thurnbichler before the competition in Willingen.
For now, both Poles and Norwegians are flying to Lake Placid with their leaders. – We are excited about these competitions. It will be great to visit the USA after such a long time. May we attract a new group of spectators to our sport – Alexander Stoeckl is looking forward to competitions in the USA. The competition is scheduled for February 10-12. Live coverage on Sport.pl and in the Sport.pl LIVE application.
Source: Sport.PL

Tristin is an accomplished author and journalist, known for his in-depth and engaging writing on sports. He currently works as a writer at 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the sports industry.