Excellence in Winklarn
Winklarn (Austria), 26–27 June 2026.
The 2026 European Cup in the distance competition offered two days of top-class Icestock sport. Europe’s best Icestock athletes gathered in Winklarn, Austria, to compete for the titles in the individual and team events.
The superbly organised event impressed with first-class performances, an extraordinary atmosphere and an international field of competitors.
The spotlight was already on the next generation on Friday. At the international nations’ competition for the U16, U19 and U23 age groups, as well as in the men’s competition, spectators were able to witness numerous talented athletes who demonstrated their skills with great dedication and impressive performances. The competition once again highlighted the successful youth development work of the European member associations and demonstrated that the long jump has a promising future.
On Saturday, the European Cup provided the sporting highlight of the weekend. Finland’s participation was particularly welcome, making the already high-calibre field of competitors even more international. Athletes from several European nations provided thrilling competitions and impressive performances at the very highest level.
In the women’s event, Austria’s Lisa Stampfl confidently secured the European Cup title, thereby confirming her international calibre once again. In the men’s event, Germany’s Markus Schätzl prevailed against strong competition and deservedly won the 2026 European Cup. Markus Schätzl also provided the most spectacular moment of the event. With an impressive distance of 128.97 metres, he completed all the way to the end on the lane four times, thrilling both participants and spectators alike. This extraordinary performance impressively underlines the exceptionally high standard currently set by this outstanding German athlete.
Outstanding team performances were also on display in the nations’ standings. In the women’s event, Austria came out on top ahead of Germany and Italy to secure overall victory. In the men’s event, the nations’ title went to Germany, which held its own against Austria and Italy. The results reflect the high standard of competition in European long jump and promise exciting international contests in the coming years.
Another highlight of the weekend was the mixed team competition, in which one female and one male athlete each competed together for their nation. In thrilling neck-and-neck duels, Germany prevailed and secured victory ahead of Austria. The competition once again underlined the great importance of team spirit in international long jump and added further excitement to the European Cup programme.
As well as the sporting achievements, Winklarn also impressed as a host. The competitions took place in a superbly prepared hall, which offered the athletes optimal conditions. It was not without reason that the Austrian sports director, Rüdiger Wagner, described Winklarn as the “Mecca of the long jump” – an assessment shared by many participants.
Another highlight was the warm welcome extended by the mayor of the market town of Winklarn. The delegations from the participating nations were officially received at the community centre. The atmospheric opening ceremony provided a fitting backdrop for the start of the European Cup and underlined the community’s great appreciation for the international sport of Icestock.
The high summer temperatures presented the athletes with additional challenges throughout the weekend. Despite the intense heat, the competitions took place at the very highest level. Concentration, technique and physical stamina were equally crucial and demanded the very best from the athletes.
The International Icestock Sport Federation would like to express its heartfelt thanks to the organising club, the numerous volunteers, the referees, the officials and the market town of Winklarn for their excellent organisation and hospitality. The 2026 European Cup was impressive proof of the enthusiasm and professionalism with which international Icestock sport is practised.
With top-class competitions, exceptional sporting performances and a warm atmosphere, the 2026 European Cup in Winklarn will remain a fond memory for all those involved and has once again demonstrated the high standing that long-distance curling enjoys within the international curling family.
Christian Lindner
President
International Federation Icestocksport
