A new entry from Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling on Pottermore reveals noteworthy events in recent Quidditch World Cup tournaments, and that Viktor Krum has come out of retirement.
The new writing from the author recaps highlights from Quidditch World Cup tournaments that have taken place between 1990 through 2014 and reveals that Krum had retired in 2002, before returning twelve years later at age 38. This year’s Cup features a USA team that has a “reasonable chance” of getting to the finals, and the opening ceremony is set to take place next month.
Writes Rowling on the 2014 tournament, “Nigeria and Norway enter the tournament as the two highest ranked teams. This is the first year that the USA is thought to have a reasonable chance of reaching the final. Much interest has been generated by the return to the Bulgarian side of the previously retired Viktor Krum, who at 38 is old for a Seeker but whose stated aim is ‘to win the World Cup before I die.’ For this reason, Bulgaria is attracting support from those whose own countries have not qualified. Liechtenstein caused a serious upset in the qualifying stages by winning the group over China, the runners-up in 2010. Liechtenstein’s team mascot is a gloomy, oversized Augurey called Hans who has his own fan club.”
You can read much more over on Pottermore. Please note that you must be logged in to view the content.
Last week Rowling released background information on the Quidditch World Cup’s strange rules and shared some notable occurrences from competitions passed, including details about one that no witch or wizard can remember.
Congratulations to Krum on coming out of his retirement. We can only hope that he wins this year! No word if Hermione will visit the tournament to support her former flame.