Simon Kostner remains in Ritten. © Max Pattis

So it's finally true: The captain extends his contract at Ritten.

Simon Kostner has long been an indispensable part of the Rittner Buam SkyAlps. The native of Val Gardena has now played 652 games for the blue-and-red team. And the 35-year-old isn't finished yet: Simon Kostner will also lead the Rittner Buam SkyAlps onto the ice in the 2026/27 season.

29 May 2026

From: pm/dl

For the living club legend, this is his 13th season with the Rittner Buam SkyAlps and his sixth as captain. He assumed this role in the 2021/22 season. He has long been indispensable to the Rittner Buam. With 652 games played, he is the longest-serving Rittner Buam in the current roster and ranks third all-time behind Emanuel Scelfo and Dan Tudin. In those 652 games, Kostner has amassed 570 points (215 goals) – a phenomenal tally.

But it's not just his playing skills that make him irreplaceable for the Rittner Buam SkyAlps. Kostner is the team's undisputed leader. With boundless ambition, tremendous fighting spirit, but also stoic calm and fair sportsmanship, he is the heart of the ice hockey club from the high plateau. Sports directors Dan Tudin and Alexander Eisath are all the more delighted that he's staying: "As captain and leader, Simon is incredibly important for the Buam. With his experience, his character, and his offensive creativity, he will continue to play a central role both on and off the ice."

Simon Kostner continues his campaign in Ritten. © Max Pattis

After this season, there were many rumors surrounding Kostner, who was also linked to a return to HC Gröden. Retirement was also a possibility. However, the captain has now extended his contract with the team on the high plateau.