An Olympic fairytale with a South Tyrolean connection

Matej Svancer became the first Austrian freestyle skier to win a medal at the Milan-Cortina Olympics. The 21-year-old, who was born in Prague but moved with his family to the Pinzgau region of Salzburg as a child, was delighted to win bronze in the Big Air freestyle event in Livigno. Two South Tyroleans also played a crucial role in Svancer's success.

February 19, 2026

From: ph

Firstly, his long-time coach Martin Premstaller (40) from Kiens, who has been working for the Austrian Ski Federation (ÖSV) for eight years. Secondly, Matthias Schenk (34) from Percha, residing in Innsbruck, who has been the Austrian Ski Federation's sports director for freestyle (freeski, snowboard, moguls, aerials) since May 1, 2023.

Keywords Olympics 2026 Freestyle Livigno South Tyrol