Max Franz: The way back to the Skistars - a fight full of emotions!

Max Franz: The way back to the Skistars - a fight full of emotions!

Vail, USA - The 35-year-old Carinthian departure star Max Franz is impressive that the ascent is possible after a severe fall. After a horrendous training accident on November 13, 2022, in which Franz caught an open lower leg fracture on the left leg and a complicated fracture on the right leg, he was operated on in Vail and then treated in Graz. After the injury, doctors feared that Franz could end his career because he screwed 20 screws and a nail to stabilize the bones. In addition, 80% nerve was severed. Despite these setbacks, Franz remains optimistic. In an interview with OE24, he explains that he himself decides when he stops: "I alone decide when it is over."

a step back on the slope

Almost two years after the fall, Max Franz has been back on the skis and has published a training video from Sölden that shows its progress. He describes this stage destination as a "moment of happiness" in his mental ups and downs, which is particularly concerned with the upcoming speed start in Beaver Creek. "I'm really happy that I am back on skis," said the departure professional. At an emotional moment, he also reflects on his past times and the challenges that sport gave him. Franz admits that he has to work back the necessary sensitivity and the muscles in order to be competitive again.

Max Franz was known for his fighting spirit, which he would like to demonstrate even after he returned to the slopes. In his day-to-day training session, he combines skiing with therapy sessions in order to refuse within his possibilities. The memories of his heavy falls, especially on the Birds of Prey course, also bring a mixture of thrill and motivation. At the first Speed race in December, he already analyzed his live ticker and is with anticipation for the upcoming challenges in the departure season. According to the OE24, his big goal is to be able to drive again on World Cuppists, without taking unnecessary risks.