Nicole Hosp signs 3-year extension with Völkl

Austria’s Nicole Hosp, the 2007 World Cup overall champion, has extended an equipment deal with Völkl for another three years
Austria’s Nicole Hosp, the 2007 World Cup overall champion, has extended an equipment deal with Völkl for another three years
    “When it comes to Völkl, I’m happy both with the equipment and all the other factors,” Hosp said in explaining her decision. “One thing I particularly value is the chance to work very closely with the racing technology development team at Völkl. But the teamwork is outstanding in all other areas as well.”
    “The fact that Niki wants to race with and for Völkl for another three years is a tremendous vote of confidence,” said Heinz Pitzer, the head of Völkl's racing division. "I'm very glad to have her in the team, particularly in view of the upcoming [World Championships] in Val-d'Isère, where she is considered among the top favorites in several disciplines."
    Hosp, 24, finished runner-up to American Lindsey Vonn in the 2008 World Cup overall standings. She has 11 World Cup victories and 43 podium finishes in six seasons on the World Cup.
    Hosp's teammate Maria Holaus is also set to continue with Völkl. The 24-year-old is seen by both in the Austrian Ski Federation and the Völkl team as one of the most promising successors to Austrian speed queen Alexandra Meissnitzer, who retired after last season. The 2007-08 season the second for Holaus on the World Cup circuit, but she made it onto the podium twice, including a win in super G at Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy.
    On the men's side, Völkl and Italian technical specialist Christian Deville have renewed their cooperation for two years. The 27-year-old established himself this past season as one of the world’s top slalom racers, finishing 11th in the World Cup slalom standings.