A Brit ends his career. © AFP / JEFF PACHOUD

Hirscher protégé has had enough: “It was a dream”

The British ski stars have outgrown their exotic reputation in recent years. They compete consistently in the World Cup and have even celebrated victories. A man who contributed to this upswing - and caused a stir through a collaboration with Marcel Hirscher - has now had enough and is ending his career.

02 Maj 2024

From: leo

Dave Ryding is the British figurehead in the ski circus. The former Kitzbühel winner's teammates are far less successful, but have already made a name for themselves - like Charlie Raposo. The 28-year-old competed 46 times in the World Cup, took part in four World Championships and was an exceptional figure as a British giant slalomist. He scored points three times - most recently in March 2022 in Kranjska Gora. Since then, the man from London has had to go through many valleys before announcing his resignation on Wednesday.

"It was a dream. All good things come to an end. In case you haven't noticed yet: I have decided to retire from alpine ski racing," Raposo begins his long farewell message on social media. He immediately gets to the reasons that led to this step. “Since my injury (on March 1st Raposo tore his cruciate ligament during the giant slalom in Aspen, Note d. Red.) I thought for a long time before I made this life-changing decision.”

A lot achieved, a lot experienced

He is extremely happy that he was able to live his childhood dream and even more grateful that he achieved some of his goals. “Collecting Britain’s first World Cup points in giant slalom in 54 years is something I will never forget. Just like every second that I was allowed to sit in the leader's red chair. It was the greatest privilege and something I am very proud of as a British ski racer,” explains Raposo.

Charlie Raposo in his element. © AFP / FABRICE COFFRINI

Raposo has not only gained fame because of this, but also through his collaboration with Marcel Hirscher and his ski company Van Deer. The Brit was the first World Cup athlete to ride with the Austrian's brand. He never achieved any points with it. “What an incredible experience and journey. I wish we had achieved more, but I thank you for the opportunity, trust and belief in me.”

“I could go on for days, but now it’s about ending this chapter,” explains Raposo, who would like to thank his coaches, partners, sponsors, friends and, last but not least, his family. “My mother and stepfather sacrificed countless days and weeks for me, standing on the side of the slopes and driving me across Europe as a teenager. I love you both for everything you’ve done.”

“I’m out, but you’re not done with me yet.” Charlie Raposo

He will miss being at the start, feeling the adrenaline of a second run, and searching for the limit. “But most of all I will miss being an athlete, being proud of what I do and representing my country. “I’m out, but you’re not done with me yet,” Raposo ends his message. In view of this, a future in the ski circus seems realistic.