Immediate retirement from skiing: "I don't want to risk my life"

In Courchevel on Friday, an emotional career ending took place that surprised the ski world.

March 13, 2026

From: det

Niels Hintermann was supposed to compete in the downhill race in Courchevel on Friday. The Swiss ski star appeared on the start list with bib number 20, and the 30-year-old was also present for the mandatory course inspection that morning. But when he was finally due to start, Hintermann was nowhere to be found. The reason: The Swiss skier has ended his career with immediate effect.

“I’m done with skiing,” the three-time World Cup winner told [source/person]. FRS. “I am no longer willing to risk my life as I have to. My cancer has already given me a second life, and I don’t want to jeopardize that lightly,” were the emotional words of the Swiss man.

That was it for Hintermann. © APA/afp / FABRICE COFFRINI

What he means is this: In the fall of 2024, he was diagnosed with lymphoma. Hintermann fought this insidious disease and celebrated his comeback this season. But now it's over.

"Body and mind say no." Niels Hintermann

"As soon as I step up to the starting line, my body and mind say no. My whole body trembles, and I have all sorts of scenarios running through my head that I shouldn't be thinking about," Hintermann reveals. The ski star also speaks of panic attacks.

Three World Cup victories

Hintermann has competed in 106 World Cup races in his career and has reached the podium seven times. He has achieved three victories (twice in Kvitfjell downhills, once in the Wengen combined).

Now Hintermann's career has come to an end. He even surprised his teammates with his decision; Marco Odermatt, for example, knew nothing about it. "When your body and mind tell you it's enough, then it's great to listen to that," said the newly crowned overall World Cup champion.

Keywords Winter sports Alpine skiing Niels Hintermann