Olympic Snowboarder Sophie Hediger Dies in Avalanche at 26

The snowboarding community is mourning the untimely passing of Sophie Hediger, a 26-year-old Swiss Olympian, who tragically lost her life in an avalanche on Monday, December 23.

Sophie Hediger has tragically died at age 26. Credit: Millo Moravski/Agence Zoom / Getty

A Devastating Loss

The accident occurred near the mountain resort town of Arosa, Switzerland, as confirmed by the Swiss-Ski Federation in a statement shared Tuesday.

“We are stunned, and our thoughts are with Sophie’s family, to whom we express our deepest condolences,” said Walter Reusser, CEO of the Swiss-Ski Federation.
“For the Swiss Ski family, the tragic death of Sophie Hediger has cast a dark shadow over the Christmas holidays. We are immeasurably sad and will honor her memory.”

The Swiss Olympian was only 26 years old. Credit: Ian MacNicol / Getty

A Rising Star Taken Too Soon

Hediger, who celebrated her 26th birthday just days before on December 14, represented Switzerland at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. She competed in both the women’s snowboard cross and the mixed team event.

Her career reached new heights in the 2023-24 season, marked by her first two World Cup podium finishes. In January 2023, she achieved her best result, securing second place in St. Moritz.

Sharing her excitement on Instagram, Hediger wrote:

“Wow! What just happened yesterday! Got my first World Cup podium at home! Couldn’t be happier.”

Her bright future and passion for the sport made her an inspiration to many, and her loss leaves a deep void in the snowboarding world.

She represented Switzerland at the 2022 Winter Olympic Games. Credit: Millo Moravski/Agence Zoom/ Getty

Accident Details

While specific details about the avalanche remain limited, the Grisons cantonal police reported the snowboarder was found two hours after emergency services were alerted. The region had experienced heavy snowfall, significantly increasing avalanche risks.

French outlet Le Parisien later identified the victim as Hediger. Out of respect for her family, the Swiss-Ski Federation stated it would not release further information.

An Outpouring of Grief

The snowboarding community and fans worldwide have expressed shock and sorrow over the loss of such a talented athlete whose life ended so suddenly.

The Swiss-Ski Federation remembered Hediger as someone whose life “came to a tragic, sudden, and far too early end.”

“Our thoughts go out to Sophie’s family, loved ones, and supporters during this heartbreaking time.”

Featured image credit: Millo Moravski/Agence Zoom / Getty