FIS mourns the tragic loss of Ueli Kestenholz
Jan 14, 2026·Snowboard Alpine)
The snowboard community is mourning the loss of Ueli Kestenholz, who tragically passed away in an avalanche accident at the age of 50. He was Switzerland’s first Olympic medallist in a snowboard discipline, winning bronze in Parallel Giant Slalom at the Nagano 1998 Olympic Winter Games, marking a historic moment for Swiss snow sports.
Kestenholz competed at the Olympic Games in 1998 and 2002, and later also took part in the Olympic debut of Snowboard Cross at Turin 2006, establishing himself as one of the sport’s pioneers across multiple disciplines. After retiring from competition, he remained a professional outdoor athlete, pursuing a wide range of mountain and adventure sports.
The FIS family extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, honoring Ueli Kestenholz as an inspiring athlete whose legacy will endure within the sport.
