The Austrian ex-ski star has been hit. © Instagram

Former ski star seriously injured: vacation ends in hospital

For Austrian ski hero Hannes Reichelt, the holiday at home held an unpleasant surprise.

August 20, 2026

From: det

Knee contusion, torn cruciate ligament, broken collarbone, herniated disc – Hannes Reichelt has suffered some of the most serious injuries during his skiing career. But now the Austrian ski hero has been hit by an accident even in retirement: The 2015 Super-G World Champion was seriously injured in a cycling accident in Schladming.

"Not quite the kind of staycation I had envisioned: Unfortunately, I crashed my racing bike over the weekend and broke my femoral neck," wrote the 46-year-old, who has been retired from skiing for five years. Reichelt subsequently had to undergo surgery. "The operation went well, and I'm doing well, all things considered."

They haven't lost their sense of humor

Reichelt is looking ahead with optimism. "As a former professional athlete, I'm (unfortunately) very familiar with injuries like these and everything that's coming up. Now it's all about patience, rest, diligently doing the rehab exercises, and gradually regaining strength and mobility in my leg." With a twinkle in his eye, the former Kitzbühel winner added: "I'll gladly keep you updated on the next steps – the whole road to my 'comeback' as a family man and amateur athlete."

Hannes Reichelt, one of Austria's most successful skiers. © APA / HANS KLAUS TECHT

In closing, Reichelt also thanked the rescue workers. Just 20 minutes after the accident, the former ski star was already in the hospital. "The rescue chain worked perfectly," said Reichelt, who is currently staying at the Diakonissen Clinic in Schladming.