After a below-par performance by his standards in the semifinal, Schubert was determined to make a statement in the final. And once again, he delivered. Roared on by the 3,000 fans in attendance, he reached hold 42 to secure third place. Only winner Neo Suzuki (JPN) and Tokyo Olympic champion Alberto Ginés López (ESP) also reached hold 42, but both were awarded a plus score, placing them ahead of the Innsbruck native.
“I’m super happy. A podium finish is a nice little bonus. My goal was to show what I’m capable of and enjoy the crowd. This time, I managed to do both,” said the six-time world champion after claiming his second podium finish in as many events this season.
It was Schubert’s 56th podium in his 89th Lead World Cup appearance. “It was close at the top, but those two are in great shape and deserved it. I’ve achieved a lot in my career and I can be satisfied with third place because I know it’s never something you can take for granted.”
He also had high praise for his home World Cup: “My heart always lights up when I compete here. I’m proud to be from Innsbruck. Everyone loves coming here, and we’ve built a real reputation with this event.”
For Suzuki, it was his second victory in Innsbruck-Tyrol after also winning here last year. “Innsbruck is a very special place. I fought hard in the final and was rewarded with the win. Right now, everything is just coming together for me.”
