Germany's performance in the Winter Olympics has raised critical questions about its youth sports programs. Andreas Schlütter, the board member and managing director of the German Ski Association (DSV), reflects on the disappointing medal count and the potential causes behind it. He highlights the pressing issues of attracting young athletes, especially those from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, to the sport.

In his interview, Schlütter proposes new initiatives aimed at reforming youth development in winter sports. He emphasizes the necessity of creating incentives for children from less privileged families to engage in winter sports. Additionally, Schlütter suggests implementing a new reward system that acknowledges and encourages young athletes’ progress and participation, aiming to create a more robust pipeline for future talent in Germany.

To improve prospects, Schlütter points to Norway as a model for success in youth winter sports. By examining Norway's practices and strategies for fostering young talent, Schlütter believes German winter sports can benefit greatly. He urges a collective effort to enhance the youth training frameworks to ensure a stronger competitive edge in upcoming international events, building a sustainable foundation for the next generation of athletes.