Former top biathlete Laura Dahlmeier has been seriously injured during a high-altitude expedition in the Karakoram mountain range of Pakistan. Her management team confirmed Dahlmeier sustained “at least serious injuries” after being caught in a rockfall while climbing at an altitude of approximately 5,700 meters two days ago.
Rescue efforts are currently facing significant challenges due to strong winds and poor visibility. The operation is expected to resume later on Wednesday.
Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed his deep concern regarding the accident. “I received the tragic news of Laura Dahlmeier’s mountain accident in Pakistan with great distress” he stated. “I thank all rescue personnel for their efforts and earnestly hope for Laura Dahlmeier’s swift recovery.
Steinmeier highlighted Dahlmeier’s exceptional sporting achievements, recalling being personally impressed by her performance at the 2018 Winter Olympics. He added his thoughts are with her family and those close to her.
Dahlmeier enjoyed a highly decorated career in biathlon, securing seven gold, three silver and five bronze medals at World Championships. She achieved significant victories at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, winning the sprint and pursuit races and claiming a bronze medal in the individual event. She announced her retirement from biathlon in May 2019 and has since qualified as a certified mountain and ski guide, a profession she undertook in 2023.
