Max Franz Ends His Career After Years of Struggling with Injuries

Austrian alpine skier Max Franz has announced his retirement. The 37-year-old speed specialist had been unable to compete fully in recent years because of the effects of a serious training crash in November 2022. The leg injuries he sustained at the time continued to trouble him, despite numerous attempts to return to the slopes.

“Alpine skiing was my life. It shaped me and gave me unforgettable moments. But my journey included not only successes, but also many setbacks,” Franz wrote. During his career, the Austrian won a bronze medal in the downhill at the 2017 World Championships, claimed three World Cup victories and finished on the podium a further 10 times in the downhill and super-G.

At the same time, Franz’s sporting career was defined by more than just victories and podium finishes. The skier suffered injuries repeatedly and each time had to fight his way back. “I fell often, suffered injuries and always fought to return,” he said.

The toughest test came with his crash in November 2022. During downhill training at Copper Mountain (USA), Max broke both legs. Many people thought that marked the end of his career. However, the Austrian refused to give up on his goal of returning to the start: he continued his rehabilitation, believed in himself and returned to competition at Val Gardena (Italy) last winter. According to Franz, that moment will remain one of the most precious of his life.

Over the summer, Max trained with the aim of competing in the World Cup again and possibly taking part in the 2027 World Championships. After his return, he lost his place in the national team. During the off-season, the pain in his legs intensified and Franz once again had to turn to surgeons. The athlete admitted that he had already lost count of the operations he had undergone.

“This decision was not easy, but it was practically inevitable. I hoped the last operation would help me. But more than two months have passed since I was able to do anything, and the pain has not subsided. I never gave up, even though the road was often rocky. But there comes a moment when you have to accept that it is time to stop,” the skier wrote.

Franz looked back gratefully on a career in which he had celebrated victories and experienced unforgettable moments. He said sport had taught him patience, courage and the ability to get back up after the most difficult situations. He offered special thanks to those who had helped him throughout his journey:

• his family, doctors, coaches and physiotherapists;
• his team and sponsors;
• the fans who supported him and sent messages of encouragement during the most difficult periods.

“Thank you for this incredible journey!” Franz said to his fans, adding that their support had often given him strength.

The Austrian’s post prompted numerous responses from former colleagues and rivals. Manuel Feller wrote to his compatriot: “All the best, Wild Boar” — Max Franz’s nickname. Romed Baumann, who announced his retirement from top-level sport at the beginning of March, said: “You gave it everything and can be incredibly proud of your career. Congratulations on everything you achieved!” Skiing legend Marco Büchel (Liechtenstein) described Franz as “a fighter and a role model”.

It is not yet known whether Max Franz will continue working in the world of alpine skiing.

Photo: Saslong Classic Club
12:16 19.10.26