After the death of Rosi Mittermaier (1950-2023), it became clear how many still carry the "Gold-Rosi" in their hearts decades after their great success at the 1976 Winter Olympics.
Private individuals, politicians and sports associations mourn the loss of the likeable sports icon. Ilse Aigner (58) wrote on Twitter on behalf of the Bavarian state parliament: "Even after her skiing career, she was an exceptional personality and popular figure - always active, always committed, sporty and social."
In a statement, the German Ski Association called Mittermaier an "extraordinary athlete who never let himself be bent" and "probably the most natural superstar that has ever existed in the sports sector." And also DSV President Dr. Franz Steinle (73) enthuses: "She was a human soul."
Actor and director Marcus Mittermeier (53) writes on Twitter about the death of the former athlete: "It makes me very sad!"
Bavaria's Prime Minister Markus Söder (56) mourns the "ambassador of our country in the world" in a press release: "We will all miss her commitment to her fellow human beings, her big heart and her unforgettable devotion. Personally, I remember many beautiful encounters who were always characterized by warmth of heart and commitment to others."
IOC President Thomas Bach (69) writes in a statement: "Rosi Mittermaier was an extremely likeable and credible ambassador for sport, who always approached people openly and modestly." Personally, too, it was always a great pleasure for him to "experience her warm-heartedness and her natural devotion to sport".
The President of FC Bayern Munich, Herbert Hainer (68), called Mittermaier in a tweet "one of the greatest German athletes and a unique Bavarian figurehead" who would have moved and inspired people.
"The news of Rosi Mittermaier-Neureuther's death made us very sad, our thoughts are with her family," said Thomas Berlemann, chairman of the German Sports Aid, in a statement. And further: "Sport needs role models, such as Rosi Mittermaier-Neureuther has been and will continue to be for future generations."
The former German ski racer died after a serious illness at the age of 72. "We as a family announce the sad news that our beloved wife, mom and grandma passed away peacefully on January 4th, 2023 after a serious illness surrounded by the family," says a statement from Christian, Ameli and Felix Neureuther.
