Swiss alpine ski racer Lara Gut-Behrami has recently hinted at the possibility of retiring from competitive skiing before the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. The 32-year-old athlete, who has enjoyed a successful career, has been reflecting on her future in the sport and suggested that her time on the slopes could be nearing its end. This announcement has come at a time when she is still a prominent figure in the world of alpine skiing, with fans and competitors alike wondering what her next move might be.
In October 2024, Gut-Behrami made headlines when she chose not to compete in the season-opening women’s giant slalom in Sölden, Austria. This decision came after a particularly challenging month for the Swiss racer, who had been dealing with a flu and persistent knee problems. She explained that she was simply not in the right physical condition to race at her best, which led to her withdrawal from the competition.
“I’m not feeling ready to race today,” Gut-Behrami said, addressing her fans and the media. “I’m not 100%, and I don’t think it’s the right moment to take any risks.” This candid statement underscored her commitment to her long-term health and performance, prioritizing recovery over the pressures of immediate competition. It also raised questions about her ability to compete at the highest level in the future, as her physical challenges have become a more significant factor in her decision-making process.
Gut-Behrami has been a dominant force in alpine skiing for many years, with multiple World Cup victories and a gold medal in the 2014 Sochi Olympics. However, like many elite athletes, she has had to contend with the physical toll that comes with years of high-level competition. Knee injuries, in particular, have been a recurring issue for Gut-Behrami, and her decision to step back from racing in Sölden reflects her cautious approach to managing her health moving forward.
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina are still several years away, but Gut-Behrami’s comments have sparked speculation about whether she will be able to continue her career at the top level. Given the physical demands of alpine skiing, it is understandable that she would be considering her options carefully. A potential retirement before the Games would mark the end of an era for Swiss alpine skiing, as Gut-Behrami has been one of the sport’s most accomplished athletes over the past decade.
As the 2024-2025 season progresses, all eyes will be on Lara Gut-Behrami to see how she handles her recovery and whether she returns to competition in full form. While her future in the sport remains uncertain, one thing is clear: she has made a lasting impact on alpine skiing, and her next steps will be watched closely by fans, experts, and fellow athletes alike.