Lindsey Vonn Mourns the Passing of Beloved Coach Erich Sailer: “I Will Never Forget You”
The ski racing world is in mourning after Lindsey Vonn, one of the most decorated athletes in alpine skiing history, announced the death of her longtime coach, Erich Sailer. For Vonn, the news is deeply personal. Sailer was not only her mentor on the slopes but also a figure she considered family.
Vonn, now 40, took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking update with her 2.5 million followers. In her emotional message, she described Sailer’s profound impact on her life, both as an athlete and as a person. The post resonated with fans across the globe, highlighting just how influential Sailer was not just to Vonn, but to the entire ski racing community.
“Yesterday my coach passed away. It’s hard to put into words how much of an impact Erich Sailer had on my life, but I will try…” Vonn wrote, opening her tribute.
More Than a Coach
For Vonn, Sailer’s guidance went far beyond technical lessons in skiing. He had been part of her family’s life for generations. Remarkably, he also coached Vonn’s father, a testament to his decades-long presence and influence in American skiing.
“Erich was more than my ski coach. More than my father’s ski coach. Erich was my family,” she explained. “My father has known him for 62 years, and he has been a part of my life since I was born. There is no doubt that I would not be the person or skier I am today without him.”
Her words reflected the deep bond they shared—a connection rooted in trust, mentorship, and a shared love of skiing. Sailer’s impact stretched beyond his relationship with Vonn; he shaped generations of athletes and elevated the sport in the United States.
A Legacy on the Slopes
Vonn made it clear that Sailer’s contribution to ski racing cannot be overstated. From his base at Buck Hill in Minnesota, he transformed a small training program into one recognized worldwide. Under his leadership, Buck Hill became known as a breeding ground for champions.
“The entire ski racing community would not be the same without him. He single-handedly did more for skiing than any other coach in America and perhaps the world,” Vonn declared.
This acknowledgment speaks volumes about Sailer’s dedication and vision. For decades, he inspired athletes to push beyond limits and instilled in them a lifelong passion for skiing.
Mourning and Celebration
While Vonn’s tribute was full of grief, it also carried notes of gratitude and celebration. She emphasized that Sailer himself would want his legacy honored by continuing to do what he loved most: skiing.
“Today we mourn but also must celebrate Erich. He would want us to be on the mountain, doing what we love to do: ski. I know he’s got his hand timer up there, making sure we are always getting faster and still getting upset with me when I’m leaning too much on my inside ski.”
The words capture both her sadness and the lighthearted spirit with which Sailer coached. Even in remembering him, Vonn paints a picture of a man deeply committed to the sport, always striving for improvement, and never losing his passion.
A Final Season of Dedication
Vonn, who made a remarkable return to competitive skiing at 40 years old, shared that she now views this season as an opportunity to honor Sailer’s memory. Every race, every turn, will carry a deeper meaning.
“Erich… I will try to make my last turns in ski racing fast for you… I will try to make them mean something more for you. You always believed in me… even now, at 40. Your passion and love for skiing was the same as when I was a kid.”
She also expressed gratitude for their final meeting this past summer, where she once again felt his unwavering belief in her abilities. “I’m so thankful I got to see you this summer. Thankful to hear that belief in me one last time. I will use that when I’m in the starting gate this last season but also for the rest of my life. I will never forget you. Never.”
Remembering a Legend
For Lindsey Vonn, the loss of Erich Sailer is immeasurable. Yet in her words, it is clear that his legacy will live on not only through her, but also through the countless athletes he inspired over the decades.
In the coming season, every race Vonn competes in will serve as a tribute to the man who shaped her career and instilled in her the values of perseverance, discipline, and passion. And for the ski racing community, Sailer’s influence will continue to echo on every mountain slope where young athletes chase their dreams.
As Vonn so powerfully stated: “I will never forget you.”