IN
THE
WIND
P32
FIM Motocrosser Hofer Killed
In Skiing Accident
R
ene Hofer, a promising young
motocrosser from Austria,
passed away following a skiing
accident in his home country,
December 4.
Hofer and 10 friends were
participating in a skiing tour when
they were hit by an avalanche.
Hofer was among three that were
killed. He was 19.
Hofer was a member of the
Red Bull KTM Factory Motocross
Team and a multi-time Junior
Champion and GP race winner in
the MX2 division. He claimed the
85cc Junior World Championship
and European titles in 2016 and
captured his first race win this
year at the MXGP of Pietramu-
rata. Hofer was also the overall
winner this year in the MX2
class at the Monster Energy FIM
Motocross of Nations, where he
represented Team Austria.
The Red Bull KTM Team issued
this statement: "KTM would like
to send love and heartfelt condo-
lences to Rene's family, friends, his
team, along with the entire moto-
cross community during this incred-
ibly difficult time. 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."
Infront Media, the organizers of
the MXGP Championship, offered
its condolences, "Hofer was no
doubt one of the happiest guys
in the paddock, always seen with
the biggest smile on his face."
CN
Red Bull KTM's Rene Hofer,
19, was among three people
who were killed by an
avalanche while participating
in a skiing tour in Austria.
PHOTO: JUAN PABLO ACEVEDO
