Former German biathlon champion Laura Dahlmeier has been seriously injured in an accident during a high-altitude expedition in the Karakoram mountain range of Pakistan. Her management confirmed that Dahlmeier sustained “at least very serious” injuries.
The incident occurred two days ago while Dahlmeier was mountaineering at an altitude of approximately 5,700 meters when she was struck by a rockfall. Rescue efforts have been hampered by strong winds and poor visibility, making access difficult. Operations are expected to continue throughout Wednesday.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed deep concern over the incident. “I received the tragic news of Laura Dahlmeier’s mountaineering accident in Pakistan with great dismay” he stated. He commended the emergency responders involved and conveyed his hope for Dahlmeier’s swift rescue.
Steinmeier highlighted Dahlmeier’s exceptional sporting achievements, noting his personal admiration for her performances at the 2018 Winter Olympics. He extended his thoughts to her family and those close to her.
Dahlmeier enjoyed a distinguished career in biathlon, amassing seven gold, three silver and five bronze medals at World Championships. She achieved significant success at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, securing gold in both the sprint and pursuit races, as well as a bronze medal in the individual competition. She announced her retirement from biathlon in May 2019. Since 2023, Dahlmeier has been a certified mountain and ski guide.