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Swiss Olympic snowboard medallist Ueli Kestenholz dies in avalanche

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on January 13, 2026

1 min read

· Last updated: January 19, 2026

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Swiss Olympic Snowboarder Ueli Kestenholz Dies in Avalanche Incident

Tragic Death of Ueli Kestenholz

ZURICH, Jan 13 (Reuters) - Swiss snowboarder and Olympic medallist Ueli Kestenholz, 50, has died after being buried in an avalanche on Sunday in the Loetschental region of Canton Valais, the Swiss skiing federation Swiss‑Ski said on Tuesday.

Background on Ueli Kestenholz

Kestenholz won a bronze medal in snowboarding's inaugural Olympic event, the giant slalom at Nagano in 1998.

Details of the Avalanche Incident

He also secured multiple World Cup podiums, and retired from competition in 2006.

Survivor's Account

A statement from Valais police, which did not identify Kestenholz by name, said the avalanche swept the snowboarder from the eastern flank of the Hockuchriz peak around 2,400 metres (7,874 feet) up the mountainside.

A skiing companion he was with managed to escape the avalanche, police said.

(Reporting by Dave Graham;Editing by Alexandra Hudson)

Key Takeaways

  • Ueli Kestenholz, Swiss Olympic snowboarder, dies in avalanche.
  • Kestenholz was 50 years old and a Nagano 1998 bronze medallist.
  • The incident occurred in the Loetschental region of Valais.
  • A skiing companion survived the avalanche.
  • Kestenholz retired from competition in 2006.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an avalanche?
An avalanche is a rapid flow of snow down a slope, often triggered by factors like weather conditions or human activity. It can be dangerous, burying anything in its path.
What is a snowboarder?
A snowboarder is an individual who rides on a snowboard, a type of board designed for sliding down snow-covered slopes. Snowboarding is a popular winter sport.
What is a bronze medal?
A bronze medal is awarded to the third-place finisher in a competition, such as the Olympics. It symbolizes achievement and is made primarily of copper.
What is a World Cup podium?
A World Cup podium refers to the three highest-placing competitors in a World Cup event, typically represented by a podium where medals are awarded.
What is a skiing federation?
A skiing federation is an organization that governs and promotes skiing and snowboarding activities, competitions, and athlete development within a specific region or country.

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