Floodlights at Bergisel are a reality

The project to install floodlights at Bergisel has entered the implementation phase. Seven masts, up to 31 meters high, were delivered by helicopter. They are scheduled to be used for the first time at the beginning of January during the Four Hills Tournament.

This finally gives the Bergisel the necessary flexibility. "We have waited many, many years for this floodlight system, so it's all the more wonderful that it has now become a reality. Without this investment, it would not have been possible to integrate the women's competition into the Four Hills Tournament schedule. With the new floodlight system, we are closing the last gap – this is a milestone for the Bergisel and the Four Hills Tournament," explained Austrian Ski Federation (ÖSV) Sports Director Mario Stecher after the arrival of the first cargo helicopters.

The first women's competition under floodlights is scheduled for January 2nd. Anticipation for the premiere is correspondingly high: "The athletes deserve this format and this stage. We are all the more pleased that this historic step is now becoming a reality in the 75th anniversary year of the Four Hills Tournament."

Seven floodlight masts, some of them made up of three parts, had to be driven into foundations up to 10 meters deep in the ground.

The investment costs for the floodlight system are expected to amount to €4.8 million. One-third of the costs will be covered by the federal government and one-third by the state of Tyrol. The remaining third will be contributed – half each – by the city of Innsbruck and the Austrian Ski Federation. The floodlight system, consisting of seven masts and 120 floodlights, will be used for the first time at the beginning of January. Official approval will take place on December 20th. For future events at Bergisel, this means more flexible competition times, better planning, and increased appeal for the Four Hills Tournament.