Olympic Star Perishes in Tragic Avalanche: Family and Sports World Left Reeling!

Seite 2 / 2

Stars (2 / 1) 13.01.2026 15:53 / Silia Symbolbild imago

Ueli Kestenholz made Swiss sports history. In 1998, he won a bronze medal in the giant slalom at the Winter Olympics in Nagano – the biggest success of his career. In addition, he claimed two world champion titles and gold at the X-Games. After retiring in 2006, he continued to push his limits: speed flying, freeriding, film projects – the mountains remained his home.

Family Tragedy: Two Sons Lose Their Father

The death of the exceptional athlete hits not only the sports community hard, but above all his family. Kestenholz leaves behind his wife and two sons, aged 17 and 9. A life full of adventure, passion, and courage – ended by a single, deadly avalanche.

A cruel twist of fate that shows: the mountains give a lot, but sometimes they take everything.