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Michael Smejkal in conversation
He has been reporting on ski sports for 37 years. In 1991, he made his debut in Saalbach as a 27-year-old and hasn’t missed any of the 17 World Championships since. He is Michael Smejkal, a journalist for the Salzburger Nachrichten (SN), now a seasoned veteran in the sports editorial team. He specializes in ski racing, ice hockey and—during the snow-free months—covers cycling and golf.
Michael vividly recalls the 1991 World Championships: The Salzburger Nachrichten team was accommodated in a classroom at the local elementary school in Saalbach, where the reporters moved in with all their gear—laptops and computers included. The atmosphere at the competitions was outstanding, fueled by fantastic weather and early successes from the Austrian athletes.
Two moments stand out for Michael: Stefan Eberharter, the carefree underdog, celebrating his unexpected victory by playing the accordion—an event that no amount of preparation could have foreseen. It was a perfect reflection of Austrian identity and culture. Then there was Ulli Maier, whom Michael knew personally. She had taken a break for maternity leave and had only competed in four races before the World Championships, none of which led to top placements. Her victory and the now-iconic photo with her young daughter, Melanie, instantly catapulted her into the spotlight - not just for ski enthusiasts, but also for the wider public.
Not only has a lot of water flowed down the Saalach River since then, but ski sports have also undergone massive changes—equipment, slope preparation, and the way athletes are managed. In the past, after a victory, both officials and athletes would gather informally to celebrate and exchange thoughts. Nowadays, athletes are kept at a distance, with a car waiting—engine running—right after their official appearances.
Journalism has also had to adapt. The internet and social media now dictate the pace. Back then, the editorial deadline was 10:00 PM, and there was still time for a quick beer. Today, journalists are slaves to the clock. For example, the opening competition ended at 5:45 PM, and the full-page article was due at 6:30 PM—so every move had to be precise! Fortunately, experience helps.
This year, Salzburger Nachrichten is trying to broaden its coverage beyond just sports fans. They have introduced columns like People at the World Championship and the World Championship Diary. Michael, finding himself with a bit of spare time, visited the Champions Club and wrote an article titled Every Plate a Masterpiece, highlighting the enormous effort put into catering for high-profile guests.
After the disappointing team event, he hoped for a turnaround in the speed disciplines. Otherwise, "in Austria, disappointment and ridicule can quickly take over—both of which are counterproductive for the team, their morale, and the overall atmosphere. That’s why an early medal would be a much-needed confidence booster."
Just 90 minutes after this assessment, the mood had completely changed: Stephanie Vernier’s gold medal lifted a huge weight off Austria’s ski community, and Raphael Haaser’s silver medal only added to the joy. Memories of 1991 resurfaced—back then, Austria had won exactly the same medals in the first two individual events.
For Michael, a journalist’s working conditions at a World Championship matter: The internet needs to function, accommodations and the press center should be within walking distance. In Saalbach, everything is well-organized, including a reliable shuttle service—especially compared to Courchevel.
When all these aspects align, the hard work of so many people pays off. And these World Championships won’t just be set in stone—they will be engraved in gold, silver and bronze!
Winter or another season? – Winter
Spontaneous or perfectionist? – Perfectionist
Humorous or serious? – Humorous
Calm or easily restless? – Now calmer than before
Dream job: Journalist or lawyer? – Definitely journalist
