Assinger will not extend his contract as Austrian head coach – Pfeifer will stay until 2028

Roland Assinger has decided to step down as women's head coach at the end of this season. Marko Pfeifer's contract, however, has been extended for another two years.

“After three intense, emotional, and above all successful years, I have decided, after much deliberation, to step down as head coach at the end of the season and not accept the offer of a new two-year contract,” said Roland Assinger.

As already announced by the sports management during the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, the Austrian Ski Federation continues to place its trust in Marko Pfeifer as head coach of the ÖSV men's team. The 51-year-old from Carinthia has extended his contract for another two years.

Marko Pfeifer will continue as head coach of the men's team for another two years.

Roland Assinger draws a positive conclusion: “I look back with great pride on what we have achieved together as a team during this time, with all the athletes, coaches, physiotherapists, and service technicians. With the completion of my three-year contract, I am closing a chapter marked by highlights. These include winning the downhill and giant slalom World Cup globes, medals at World Championships and Olympic Games, and the victory in the Nations Cup for the women. Even though I am ending my work as head coach, I would like to continue to make my experience available to the sport of skiing. Initial discussions about a possible future role within the federation have already taken place.”

Assinger worked in various coaching roles at the Austrian Ski Federation (ÖSV) from 2008 to 2020 before being appointed head coach of the women's team in April 2023. Alpine Skiing Director Christian Mitter regrets the decision: "Roland informed us of his decision, which we naturally respect. We will be holding discussions in the coming days. We can well imagine using an expert like him in a different role within our coaching team in the future."

Who will take over the position of head coach of the women's team is not yet clear. Discussions will be held in the coming days and weeks.