Snowboarder Sophie Hediger, who represented Switzerland at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, has died following an avalanche, the Swiss-Ski federation announced Tuesday. She was 26 years old.
In a statement, Walter Reusser, CEO Sport at Swiss-Ski, confirmed that Hediger was freeriding in Arosa when her passion for the mountains turned into tragedy.
“We are stunned, and our thoughts are with Sophie’s family, to whom we extend our deepest condolences,” Reusser said.
Sophie Hediger achieved significant milestones in her career, including her first two World Cup podium finishes during the 2023-24 season.
She notably secured a second-place finish at the World Cup dress rehearsal and was preparing to compete at the upcoming home World Championships in March, Reusser added.
“For the Swiss Ski family, Sophie Hediger’s tragic passing casts a dark shadow over the Christmas holidays,” he said. “We are profoundly saddened and will forever hold Sophie in honorable memory.”
Hediger, who grew up in Horgen, spent much of her time in Arosa, fostering her love for snowboarding. Her untimely passing has deeply impacted the Swiss sports community, leaving behind a legacy of achievement and passion for her sport.
Hediger’s impressive career highlights include her participation in the snowboard women’s cross event at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics and her consistent growth as an athlete on the World Cup circuit.
