The pilot was with some friends in the Austrian Alps. In total there were three fatalities. RedBull saw him as a contender for the 2022 MX2 title.
René Hofer, a 19-year-old motocross rider, was killed in an avalanche while skiing with friends in the Austrian Alps. The young Austrian was in Lackenspitze, in the Salzburg region, when he was surprised by the snow. In total there were three fatalities, including the KTM star and one of the great promises of the competition. The organization has sent its condolences and some of its rivals have remembered their friend after hearing the news.
“Infront Moto Racing has to share the tragic news of the passing of one of its shining stars, René Hofer. Hofer was without a doubt one of the happiest guys in the paddock, he was always seen with the biggest smile on his face. The Austrian had a bright future ahead “, has confirmed the competition in a sad official statement.
“Infront Moto Racing and the entire MXGP family express their deepest condolences and send all their strength to René’s family, his friends and the entire KTM team at this incredibly difficult time”, they have moved hours after the news will begin to spread among the local media.
Hofer, born in Linz in 2002, started racing in the motor world at just three years old. His talent soon stood out among the specialists and during his participation in the 85cc, he showed his best version. René achieved the title of world and European champion in this category. 2016, when he won the world number one award, allowed him to make Austrian motocross history by being the third rider from the country to do so.
The young Austrian made the leap to MX2 in 2019 thanks to a wildcard. The rider left a good feeling and was already seen as the great contender for the title in 2022. Heinz Kinigadner, a former Austrian motocross rider and a reference in the competition, has been one of the people who has worked the most with Hofer. “V to the right and has everything you need to succeed in the MX2 class and MXGP way”, he came to recognize.
The loss of Hofer at 19 has shaken the entire competition. The Spanish Jorge Prado, champion in 2018 and 2019 of MX2 and partner KTM, has been one of those who has sent a message of astonishment and sadness upon hearing the news. “I still can’t believe it,” stressed the pilot. “Life can be so unfair sometimes … Rest in peace René and don’t forget to keep smiling like you always did.”
Amelia Warner
Amelia Warner writes all the Latest Articles. She mostly covers Entertainment topics, but at times loves to write about movie reviews as well.
