The Legacy of Felix Neureuther: Germany’s Alpine Icon in the Olympic Spotlight
GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN, 09 February 2026 — As the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics dominate the global sporting conversation this week, one name remains synonymous with German skiing excellence: Felix Neureuther. While the retired slalom specialist is no longer carving through the gates himself, his presence at the 2026 Games as a lead expert for German broadcaster ARD has kept him at the forefront of the winter sports world.
Neureuther, who remains Germany’s most successful male World Cup skier, has recently made headlines for his emotional commentary regarding the comeback of American legend Lindsey Vonn. Following Vonn’s recent performances in St. Moritz and her subsequent challenges in Cortina, Neureuther famously referred to her as a “goddess,” highlighting the deep respect shared between the titans of the 2000s and 2010s skiing era.
A Career Defined by Technical Mastery
Born on 26 March 1984 in Munich, Felix Neureuther was destined for the slopes. As the son of skiing legends Christian Neureuther and Rosi Mittermaier, he carried the weight of expectation from his debut in 2003 until his retirement in 2019. Specialising in the technical disciplines of Slalom and Giant Slalom, Neureuther became a fixture on the FIS Alpine World Cup podium for over a decade.
World Cup Dominance
Neureuther’s career is defined by consistency and a fierce rivalry with Austrian great Marcel Hirscher. Over his career, he secured 15 World Cup victories (though some records cite 13 depending on the inclusion of City Event formats), making him the most decorated German male in the history of the circuit. His 47 podium finishes solidified his status as a national hero.
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| World Cup Victories | 15 |
| World Cup Podiums | 47 |
| World Championship Medals | 5 (1 Gold, 1 Silver, 3 Bronze) |
| Olympic Appearances | 3 (2006, 2010, 2014) |
The Neureuther-Mittermaier Dynasty
The Neureuther name is part of a larger sporting dynasty. As of 2020, the combined family—including his late mother Rosi Mittermaier and father Christian—boasted a staggering 31 World Cup wins and 115 podium finishes. This legacy has transitioned from the racecourse to the commentary box and environmental advocacy.
Advocacy and Post-Career Life
Since retiring after his final race in Soldeu in 2019, Neureuther has focused on promoting physical activity for children and environmental conservation. He is a prominent advocate for the BRS Conventions, pushing for “clean sport” and sustainable mountain tourism. His “magic moments” philosophy encourages athletes to connect with their environment rather than just the clock.
Felix Neureuther at the 2026 Winter Olympics
During the current Olympic cycle in Milano Cortina, Neureuther has been a vocal supporter of the athletes. He was notably seen motivating Lindsey Vonn at the finish line following her Super-G runs last week. His expert analysis for ARD has been praised for its technical depth and infectious enthusiasm, particularly during the high-stakes downhill events in Italy where he remains a beloved figure among both fans and competitors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many World Cup races did Felix Neureuther win?
Felix Neureuther achieved 15 World Cup victories during his career, the highest number for any German male alpine skier.
Is Felix Neureuther still competing?
No, Neureuther retired from professional skiing at the end of the 2018/19 season. His final competitive result was a 7th-place finish in the Slalom at Soldeu.
What is Felix Neureuther doing now?
As of February 2026, he serves as a winter sports expert and commentator for the German television network ARD. He is also an author and an advocate for children’s health and environmental protection in the Alps.
Did Felix Neureuther win an Olympic medal?
Despite his massive success in the World Cup and five World Championship medals, an Olympic medal eluded him across his three appearances in 2006, 2010, and 2014.