Austrian World Cup ski racer Gernot Reinstadler tragically passed away on January 19, 1991, following a devastating crash during a qualifying run for a downhill race in Wengen, Switzerland. The 20-year-old athlete suffered a broken pelvis and severe internal injuries near the finish line, prompting immediate medical attention.
Despite the efforts of surgeons at the hospital in Interlaken, where Reinstadler was airlifted, the young racer succumbed to severe internal bleeding. Despite receiving multiple blood transfusions, Reinstadler, who had yet to score any World Cup points, continued to lose significant amounts of blood and remained unconscious.
Dr. Paul Gunther, who treated Reinstadler at the hospital, revealed the severity of the racer’s injuries, stating, “His pelvis was broken in two.” The harrowing accident occurred as Reinstadler veered off course, catching one ski tip in the side netting and losing control. He slid down the course, leaving a trail of blood in the snow, while hundreds of spectators watched in shock.
