Ski veteran ends career: "Feels right"

German ski racer Romed Baumann is ending his career. The 40-year-old had planned to compete for the last time in the Super-G in Garmisch-Partenkirchen this Sunday – but the race was cancelled due to fog and drizzle.

March 01, 2026

From: dpa

Nearly 22 years after Baumann's World Cup debut – back then still representing his native Austria – and after more than 400 races at World Cups, World Championships, and Olympic Games, one of the longest careers in skiing history has come to an end. "The decision matured over time, and somehow it felt right to do it here in Garmisch," said Baumann. He added that he had a long career and enjoyed it immensely. "The day comes eventually, and today was that day."

The race cancellation denied the veteran a farewell in front of cheering fans. However, his teammates and support staff were waiting for him in the finish area with bottles of champagne and sprayed him with it. Afterwards, there were commemorative photos with the entire team and Baumann's family. "That jerk!" joked Simon Jocher. "Now I'm the oldest one on the team."

Resignation was imminent

The retirement of the 2021 Super-G World Championship runner-up had been brewing. The veteran skier failed to finish in the top 15 this season, which is why he wasn't selected for the Winter Olympics in Italy. During Saturday's downhill race in Garmisch, he pulled out just before the finish line. "I didn't feel confident enough anymore," the father of two explained – he didn't want to take any risks. When asked if this was a sign of retirement, he replied: "I don't know. We'll see..." Now, the decision has been made a day later.

Romed Baumann opens a new chapter. © AFP / FABRICE COFFRINI

Baumann made his World Cup debut in March 2004. For the Austrian team, he went on to achieve two victories and eight further podium finishes in the following years, as well as a bronze medal in the combined event at the 2013 World Championships. In 2019, the racer switched to the German Ski Association (DSV), where, after initial doubts, they were quickly convinced of the skier's abilities. Baumann celebrated his greatest success in 2021 with a silver medal in the Super-G at the World Championships. He also achieved another World Cup podium finish almost three years ago.

Besides his personal achievements, the native Tyrolean was particularly valued in the German speed team as a mentor to younger athletes like Simon Jocher or the currently injured Luis Vogt. Few others can match his experience: On Saturday, Baumann started his 167th downhill race, becoming the sole record holder in the World Cup discipline.

Now just a TV viewer – and then a coach?

Baumann plans to watch the remainder of the World Cup season on television. "I already had the chance to practice watching TV a bit during the Olympics, and that worked out quite well," Baumann said with a grin. He's also looking forward to skiing with his children. He intends to remain involved in competitive skiing long-term. He mentioned that he started a coaching course last year. "I'd be extremely interested in passing on my knowledge," he said. "I think that's the direction I'll go in."

Keywords Winter sports Alpine skiing Romed Baumann career end