Sölden without Luitz and Pertl: Injury and Family Joys Mark the Start of the Season

Luitz suffers cruciate ligament rupture

One of the first highlights of the Alpine Ski World Cup season is the traditional season opening on the Rettenbach Glacier in Sölden, but this year two popular German skiers will be missing. Stefan Luitz from Bolsterlang in the Allgäu will miss the race after suffering a cruciate ligament rupture in his left knee while training in Zermatt. The 30-year-old was considered one of the German medal candidates for the World Cup in Courchevel/Meribel in early February. The German Ski Association (DSV) confirmed his injury on Monday and immediately expressed its sympathy. "That's very bitter news, especially for Steffi, who worked so hard over the summer to come back strong," said Alpin Director Wolfgang Maier.

Pertl becomes a father for the third time

Another German will also be absent from Sölden: Dominik Pertl from Lenggries. The 32-year-old is about to become a father for the third time and will therefore not compete in the giant slalom on the Rettenbach Glacier. "Of course, I'm disappointed not to be able to start in Sölden, but my wife and my family are simply more important to me," said Pertl. The DSV also expressed its understanding for Pertl's decision. "We are very happy for Domi and his family and wish them all the best," said Maier.

Other German starters in Sölden

In the absence of Luitz and Pertl, Linus Straßer (Munich), Alexander Schmid (Fischen), Fabio Gstrein (Lenggries) and Julian Rauchfuß (Oberstdorf) will start for the German team in the men's giant slalom in Sölden. In the women's race, Lena Dürr (Germering), Jessica Hilzinger (Oberstdorf), Emma Aicher (Munich) and Andrea Filser (Reit im Winkl) will compete. The first runs of the giant slalom races will start on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. (women) and 12:30 p.m. (men).