The first Kenyan World Cup alpine ski racer just announced her retirement despite qualifying for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games.
“You’ve left a mark not just on the slopes, but in the hearts of many. We’re proud of your journey — good luck for your future.” -FIS Alpine
27-year-old Sabrina Simader has been competing on the international stage for the past 11 years beginning with the Youth Olympic Games at 17, to World Championships and the Olympic Games. Ski Racing Media reports Simader was denied financial backing from her home nation despite previous assurances:
“A ski season costs around 100,000 euros. Without support from the national association or the Kenyan Olympic Committee, it’s simply not financially viable.” -Sabrina Simader
It is unfortunate to see an athlete in her prime retire leading into an Olympic year but we want to celebrate her accomplishments including 23 World Cup race appearances and representing Kenya as their lone alpine skier at the PyeongChang Winter Olympics.
Simader plans to use her business degree in future and help aid underrepresented athletes’ path into winter sports:
“There are many projects. I could work as a brand ambassador for companies that supported me in the past. The aid projects in Kenya are close to my heart. I want to work in Europe to help secure urgent support for these initiatives.”
