Draws hope

Max Franz: “I can walk longer at a stretch”

Max Franz's bone is finally getting stable.(Bild: GEPA, instagram.com/maxfranzz)

As an onlooker at the Ski World Cup final in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, ÖSV downhill skier Max Franz reported progress in his rehab: "Something has really progressed in the last three weeks. I can walk longer at a stretch!"

The road back is still rocky and difficult. But by taking small steps forward, the Carinthian is gaining hope. He broke both lower legs in a training crash in Colorado 16 months ago. The nerve was 80 percent severed, the tissue severely damaged and the surgical scars are reportedly 114.5 centimetres long. In the meantime, 19 screws were stuck in his feet.

In a wheelchair for a long time
Franz has often had to revise his goals since the stroke of fate. The 34-year-old was in a wheelchair for a long time and first had to learn to walk again. Motivation dampeners and setbacks were part of everyday life. However, the healing process following another operation before Christmas has given him a boost. "The bone is finally becoming stable. The nerve pain is more, but that's a good sign, more is coming back." At the same time, the nature lover noted dryly: "Longer walks with the dogs don't play."

Racing on TV not a burden or motivation
When asked about a possible return as a skier, Franz said that his goal was "to do something next season". He works three days a week at the Athlete Performance Center in Thalgau and two days with his trusted physiotherapist at home in Scheffau. Watching the races at the 2025 World Championship venue is currently neither a psychological burden nor additional motivation. "It doesn't really bother me. I watch the races with relish. I'm far too far away to think it would be a shame not to be there."