International Transplant Athletes Gather in Leutasch for Austrian Winter Championships

From 12 to 15 March 2026, the alpine village of Leutasch welcomed transplant recipients and dialysis patients from across Europe for the 18th International Austrian Ski Championships, an event that continues to highlight the power of sport, recovery, and life after transplant.

Organised by the Austrian Transplant Sports Federation (ATSF), the annual championships brought together athletes, supporters, and families for four days of winter sport, shared experiences, and celebration in the mountains of Austria.

Athletes from Across Europe

This year’s championships welcomed participants from multiple countries, including:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Luxembourg
• Hungary
• Switzerland

While participants came from different backgrounds, cultures, and transplant journeys, the event once again demonstrated the strong sense of connection that exists within the international transplant community.

Sport Beyond Competition

Over the course of the championships, athletes took part in a range of winter disciplines, including alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoe events.

For many participants, the event represented far more than competition.

It offered an opportunity to challenge their bodies, rebuild confidence, and continue proving what is possible after transplant or during dialysis treatment.

For some athletes, returning to physical activity after major surgery or ongoing medical treatment remains one of the most significant milestones in their recovery journey.

Stories of Long-Term Recovery

Among the many participants were athletes whose transplant journeys now span many years.

One athlete from Belgium marked ten years since transplantation while competing in Leutasch, offering a powerful example of long-term recovery, continued health, and active living.

Stories like these continue to inspire both fellow athletes and the wider transplant community, demonstrating that recovery does not end with surgery, but continues through movement, determination, and ongoing care.

A Growing Tradition

What began years ago as a smaller gathering of transplant athletes has grown into an established international winter event.

Today, the Austrian Ski Championships continue to provide a space where athletes can reconnect, share experiences, and celebrate the progress they have made since transplant.

For many, the event is as much about community and friendship as it is about sport.

A Shared Message

Set against the snow-covered mountains of Leutasch, this year’s championships delivered a powerful reminder:

Life after transplant is not defined by limitations, but by the opportunities people choose to embrace.

Through sport, movement, and community, transplant recipients across Europe continue to show what strength, recovery, and second chances can look like.