Austrian skier Sophie Sorschag has officially received Kosovo citizenship and will represent the country in upcoming international skiing competitions. The citizenship was granted during a formal ceremony led by the President of the Kosovo Olympic Committee (KOC), Ismet Krasniqi, and the Chairman of the Kosovo Ski Federation, Milaim Kelmendi.
Krasniqi expressed pride in welcoming a world-class athlete to represent Kosovo on the global stage. “It is an honor for Kosovo to be represented by a world champion in skiing,” he said. “We look forward to seeing her achieve great success in international competitions.”
Sorschag, who competed for Austria in the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing and won a world team title in 2021, said she felt deeply honored by the opportunity.
“It is a great honor for me to represent Kosovo in future international competitions,” Sorschag said. “I want to thank the Kosovo Olympic Committee, the Ski Federation, my family, and everyone who helped make this possible. I look forward to a successful future together.”
Ski Federation Chairman Milaim Kelmendi highlighted that several other countries had shown interest in recruiting Sorschag. However, he said Kosovo’s commitment and determination played a key role in securing her allegiance.
“There was strong competition from other nations for Sophie’s services, but the dedication of our federation and our country made it possible for her to choose Kosovo,” Kelmendi stated.
Sorschag’s addition is expected to elevate Kosovo’s presence in international winter sports as the nation continues to build its profile in global skiing competitions.