Polish ski jumpers delivered strong performances in Sapporo, with Kamil Stoch landing a 136.5‑meter jump and Piotr Żyła reaching 134 meters, both securing spots in the next round. Meanwhile, Maciej Kot battled a respiratory infection, finishing 12th but still qualifying, highlighting health concerns as the team eyes the upcoming Four Hills tournament.
Stoch and Żyła Secure Leading Positions
Kamil Stoch, the double Olympic champion, launched a 136.5 m jump that guaranteed his advancement to the next stage of the competition. Piotr Żyła continued to close the gap to the overall leaders with a 134 m effort, keeping his place among the top three qualifiers.
Kot’s Health Challenge
Maciej Kot entered the event battling an upper‑respiratory infection exacerbated by Sapporo’s cold conditions. Despite the illness, he managed a 12th‑place finish in qualifying, preserving his spot in the competition but underscoring the need for immediate rehabilitation.
Emerging Talents Gain Ground
Newcomers Aleksander Zniszczoł and Klemens Joniak seized valuable opportunities. Zniszczoł returned from a serious knee injury to finish 15th, while Joniak, fresh from a strong Continental Cup showing, qualified in 19th place, injecting fresh energy into the Polish lineup.
Implications for Four Hills Rankings
The Sapporo results are pivotal for the overall World Cup standings ahead of the Four Hills Tournament. After a strong weekend in Zakopane, Stoch leads by six points, with Żyła and Kot remaining within striking distance of the title race. Consistency in the first two events could determine the season’s champion.
Season Outlook and Four Hills Preview
Looking ahead to Oberstdorf, Garmisch‑Partenkirchen, Innsbruck, and Bischofshofen, the Polish team must blend technical precision with health stability. Stoch emphasizes a focused approach on each jump and recovery, while Żyła notes the differing conditions in Germany will test their adaptability.
Summary
Sapporo confirmed that Poland’s ski‑jumping elite are in solid form, yet highlighted vulnerabilities, particularly Kot’s illness. The steady performances of Stoch and Żyła reinforce their leadership, and the rise of Zniszczoł and Joniak adds depth that could spark unexpected shifts in the race for the Four Hills title.
