Altenberg, Germany – Swiss bobsledder Sandro Michel’s condition has been declared stable following emergency surgery at the University Hospital Dresden, after a severe crash during the official World Cup bobsleigh training in Altenberg on February 13, 2024.
The accident occurred when the four-man bobsleigh, piloted by Michael Vogt, lost control and crashed. Michel, serving as the brakeman, was ejected from the sled and tragically run over as the bobsleigh slid uncontrollably back from the finish area. Michel sustained significant injuries to his hip and thigh, necessitating urgent surgical intervention. Additionally, chest injuries were reported, with further examinations planned to assess their extent.
Pilot Michael Vogt suffered a severe concussion and bruises in the incident, while pushers Dominik Hufschmid and Andreas Haas also received minor injuries. The Swiss team, deeply affected by the accident, is being closely monitored and supported by Swiss Sliding, the national governing body for the sport.
Swiss Sliding expressed its profound concern and extended wishes for a quick and complete recovery to all injured athletes. The federation has given the discretion to other Swiss teams at Altenberg to decide their participation in the remaining training sessions and the weekend’s races.
The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) and Swiss Sliding are in close communication, both prioritizing the welfare of the athletes. An investigation into the cause of the crash at the Altenberg bobsled track is underway to prevent such incidents in the future.
The training in Altenberg is set to continue, and the World Cup races will proceed as scheduled, despite the shadow cast by this unfortunate event. The bobsleigh community stands together in hoping for the swift recovery of Sandro Michel and his teammates, reminding everyone of the inherent risks and bravery involved in this high-speed sport.
