Nicolas Gstrein: Tyrolean ski talent surprisingly out at the age of 22!

Nicolas Gstrein: Tyrolean ski talent surprisingly out at the age of 22!

The Austrian ski racer Nicolas Gstrein surprisingly ended his career at the age of just 22. He announced this decision today via Instagram and said that he had struggled with this difficult choice for a long time. Gstrein, the son of former Olympic champion Bernhard Gstrein, retired completely from active sport after publishing his retirement announcement on his social channels.

During his career, Gstrein was able to look back on an impressive youth performance. Among other things, he celebrated six victories in FIS races and achieved 14 podium finishes. His most significant success was winning the slalom at the Hungarian Championships, which he celebrated in March. Despite these successes, he was unable to assert himself in the European Cup and completed a total of 14 starts in this series.

Gratitude and new perspectives

In his declaration of resignation, Nicolas Gstrein spoke of the unforgettable moments and friendships he was able to experience in skiing. He hopes to discover a new passion that gives him as much joy as ski racing. After a hip operation in 2024, he began studying, which opened up new perspectives for him.

Gstrein's resignation comes amid a wave of young resignations in winter sports. This raises questions about the future of the Austrian Ski Association (ÖSV), as the departures of promising talent could have long-term effects on the association's competitiveness. Gstrein's resignation is not the only one, because in spring 2025 other athletes such as Markus Eisenbichler and Johannes Thingnes Bö also decided to end their careers.

A look at the retirements in winter sports

The list of athletes ending their careers before the upcoming Olympic Games is impressive. In addition to Gstrein, there are several prominent names: Markus Eisenbichler, who recently ended his 20-year career in the DSV squad, as well as the biathletes Johannes and Tarjei Bö, who are giving up their careers for family reasons. Jarl Magnus Riiber, a Nordic combined athlete, has also announced his withdrawal from active sport due to health problems, as have other athletes.

The looming retirements could permanently change the landscape of winter sports, especially since many of these athletes not only enjoy sporting success, but also great popularity. Nicolas Gstrein's resignation is not only a loss for the ÖSV, but also makes the entire winter sports community feel the loss of young talent.