Shock for the German ski racers: Josef Ferstl was transported away by helicopter after a fall during the first downhill training session on the Streif in Kitzbühel.

According to information from the German Ski Association (DSV), he suffered a cut on his nose, according to information from the mountain rescue service, but further investigations are ongoing.

"When the helicopter comes, it's never a good sign," said teammate Dominik Schwaiger at the finish.

Ferstl, who had won a Super-G on the Streif in 2019, got too close to the safety tarpaulin at the exit of the steep slope and fell.

However, he was then able to climb into the rescue sled on his own.

Apart from that, the subsequent removal from the mountain is obligatory in Kitzbühel, Ferstl was flown to the hospital in St. Johann for the examinations.

Meanwhile, Austria's ski idol Marcel Hirscher has made an acclaimed comeback.

However, the double Olympic champion from 2018 in Kitzbühel was only a precursor to the first downhill training session on Wednesday.

Hirscher back for advertising purposes

"The sporting appeal of conquering the Streif has always been on my list," said the 32-year-old.

During his active time, during which he had won seven World Championship gold medals and 67 World Cup races, he already competed in Super-G and combined on the Streif-Alm.

"Now it's getting serious.

Time to drive the Streif," wrote Hirscher before appearing on social media.

Felix Neureuther's former rival also plans to be a precursor in the second training session on Thursday and in the downhill races on Friday and Saturday - he wants to promote his own ski brand.

Hirscher ended his unique career in 2019.

He won the overall World Cup eight times.