Olympic snowboarder Sophie Hediger dies in avalanche accident

The Swiss-Ski federation has reported that Olympic snowboarder Sophie Hediger passed away after being involved in an avalanche accident in Arosa on Monday.

Hediger, 26, was part of the national snowboard cross team and competed in the 2022 Winter Olympics in China. She then celebrated her first two placements on the World Cup podium during the 2023-24 season.

The head of Swiss-Ski, Walter Reusser, expressed his shock, stating, “We are at a loss for words, and our hearts go out to Sophie’s family. We offer them our sincerest sympathies.”

"The loss of Sophie has brought a heavy sadness to the Swiss-Ski community during this holiday season. We are deeply heartbroken."

Swiss-Ski announced that they would not be providing any additional information regarding Hediger's passing. This choice was made in consultation with her family and partner.