Daniel Danklmaier is supported by the paramedics. © APA/afp / MARCO BERTORELLO

Heavy fall in Val Gardena: Austria's ski stars worried

While the home fans in Val Gardena cheered after Mattia Casse's victory, there is cause for concern in Austria's ski team.

20 December 2024

From Val Gardena

The big party took place in the finish area of ​​St. Christina on Friday afternoon. Mattia Casse won the Super-G in Val Gardena celebrated his first victory at almost 35 years of age and caused pure excitement among the many fans. But not everyone was in the mood to celebrate on this cloudy day on the Saslong. The Austrian ski aces in particular were very worried after the race - which had less to do with their poor sporting performances and more to do with the fall of a teammate.

Daniel Danklmaier initially had a strong performance on the Saslong, but then he lost control, got caught in a gate and fell. The 31-year-old speed specialist remained lying in the snow, the race was interrupted, and his right knee was apparently affected.

Brought to Innsbruck

After a few minutes, Danklmaier strapped on his skis with the help of the paramedics and skied down the valley, but he was obviously in great pain. After an initial examination at the finish, no diagnosis was made, and Danklmaier was now taken to Innsbruck, where it will be revealed how badly the Styrian was injured.

"I don't give a shit about my ride." Vincent Kriechmayr

The scene shocked his teammates, especially Vincent Kriechmayr, who was the best Austrian on Friday (12th place). "I don't give a damn about my ride. I hope it's not so tragic for him," said the 33-year-old in an interview with ORF. He later explained to print journalists: "He's had so many serious injuries in his career. He's such an important part of our team and a good friend of mine. I hope it's not too bad."

Indeed, the downhill skier, whose best placing was fifth in Kitzbühel, has been plagued by bad luck with injuries. The 31-year-old has already torn his cruciate ligament three times in his career. Now Austria is hoping that it won't be as bad this time.