Finn Sonnekalb, a leading German speed skater, regards the upcoming World Cup event in Inzell as a preparatory competition rather than a peak performance opportunity ahead of the Winter Olympics.
According to Sport1, the Inzell World Cup is set to bring together the top speed skating athletes for a final test prior to the Winter Games in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo scheduled from February 6 to 22.
Sonnekalb, 18, who has demonstrated strong performances this Olympic season especially in middle-distance events, expressed a measured outlook on the event. He noted that many athletes are still focused on training rather than achieving top times, saying, “For all of us, this is more of a competition where many are still in training mode. There will not be outstanding performances from anyone, at least not the kind we will see at the Olympic Games.” He added that placing on the podium was less important at this stage.
Sonnekalb is among the 13 speed skaters selected by the German Ice Speed Skating and Shorttrack Association (DESG) to compete in the Winter Olympics. As a promising athlete from Erfurt, he has entered the broader circle of contenders through his impressive results so far this season.
