Top teenage Motocross rider Rene Hofer, 19, dies in avalanche tragedy

Leading MX2 World Championship rider Rene Hofer has died after being caught up in an avalanche in Austria that also killed two of his friends.

The youngster - aged 19-years old - was on an off-season skiing trip with seven friends in the Austrian mountains near Salzburg when an avalanche began and struck the party of 11.

Sky reports they were swept up by a 200m slab of snow that had shifted, collecting five of the skiers, including Hofer. Though two escaped, three wouldn’t survive despite the efforts of rescue teams.

Hofer was considered one of Motocross’ most promising competitors to be coming through the ranks after sweeping to multiple junior titles prior to his move into MX2. 

Having made his debut in 2020, Hofer went on to win two races in Pietramutara (Italy) as part of the factory Red Bull KTM squad en route to sixth in the MX2 World Championship standings in 2021.

“KTM would like to send love and heartfelt condolences to Rene’s family, friends, his team, along with the entire motocross community during this incredibly difficult time,” KTM said in a statement.. 

“Rene, a multi-time junior champion and GP winner with a bright future in Grand Prix ahead of him, will be remembered not only for his talent on the track, but also for his approachable, fun-loving and friendly personality, along with his ever-present smile.  

“Rene will be greatly missed by everyone in the KTM family. 

“Ride on peacefully Rene. You will be missed immeasurably. #711”