Olympic champ Laura Dahlmeier’s body left in the mountains: 'It was her wish'

The 31-year-old athlete was caught in a rockfall on Monday, July 28, while descending from the summit. Her climbing partner was nearby and immediately tried to help, but the difficult terrain and ongoing landslide made the situation worse.

A rescue mission was launched the next day, Tuesday, July 29. However, efforts had to be called off that same evening.

The decision was due to the combination of high risk of further rockfalls and unpredictable weather conditions, which made the operation too dangerous.

According to the official statement, Dahlmeier suffered severe injuries and most likely died instantly. Her body will remain in the mountains, as the risk of a recovery mission is deemed too high.

"Based on aerial surveillance data and the description of her injuries provided by her partner, it is assumed that Laura died immediately after the incident. The rescue operation was halted after nightfall," the management said.

The statement also emphasized that leaving the body in the mountains was Dahlmeier’s personal wish. She had expressed beforehand that no one should risk their life to save hers in such a situation.

"This decision is fully in line with her written will. Laura’s family also asks that her final wish be respected," the team added.

Her loved ones remember Dahlmeier as a sincere and devoted person who inspired others to follow their dreams.

"Laura enriched the lives of many with her character and example. She remained true to herself until the very end," her family said.

Laura Dahlmeier was one of the most successful athletes of her generation. She won two gold medals at the 2018 Olympics and was a seven-time world champion. In 2019, she unexpectedly ended her sports career at the age of 25.