Sophie Hediger, a member of Switzerland’s snowboard cross team at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, has died following an avalanche at a mountain resort, the country’s skiing federation has confirmed.
The incident occurred on Monday at the Arosa resort in Switzerland.
Hediger, 26, competed at the Beijing Games in the women’s snowboard cross and the mixed team version of the same event.
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Hediger achieved her first two World Cup podium finishes in the 2023-24 season.
Her best result was a second place in St. Moritz in January.
Sophie Hediger takes 2nd place during the FIS Snowboard Cross World Cup Men’s and Women’s Snowboard Cross on January 26, 2024 in St Moritz, Switzerland. Getty
“We are shocked and our thoughts are with Sophie’s family, to whom we offer our deepest condolences,” said Swiss-Ski CEO Walter Reusser in a statement.
“(She lost her life) tragically, brutally and far too soon.”
Hediger was in a relationship with Swiss ice hockey player Dario Wuthrich.
His club, HC Ambri Piotta, shared a heartbreaking post in honour of Hediger.
Sophie Hediger of Switzerland is seen during the Mixed Team Snowboard Cross. Getty
“The Ambrì-Piotta Hockey Club joins defender Dario Wuthrich in mourning the sudden and tragic passing of his beloved partner Sophie,” the club said on X.
“Our most sincere condolences to Sophie’s family and Dario and a big hug from the whole white and blue family.”
There have also been tributes from around the world, with Australian snowboarder Belle Brockhoff taking to Instagram to share her condolences.
Sophie Hediger competes during the Women’s Snowboard Cross Qualification on Day 5 of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games. Getty
“Rest in peace Sophie. I am so grateful for the times we spent together and sharing our love for snowboard cross,” Brockhoff said on social media.
Brockhoff competed against Hediger back in 2022 at the Winter Olympics.