The figure skating world is in mourning after the shocking death of 23-year-old Julia Marie Gaiser — a rising star whose brilliance on the ice was cut short in a devastating road accident in Austria.
Rushed to the scene
Gaiser, originally from Brixen (Bressanone) in South Tyrol, northern Italy, had been cycling when tragedy struck. Local reports say she was riding across a busy junction last Thursday when she was hit by a truck. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, but attempts to save her life failed. Authorities believe she died instantly.
Flowers and candles were soon placed at the roundabout where the tragedy occurred. Exactly how the collision happened is still unclear, but according to Krone, the 47-year-old truck driver tested negative for alcohol.
The driver involved in the accident was comforted at the scene by clergy.
An investigation into the crash is ongoing.
A champion gone too soon
Julia’s impact on the skating world was undeniable. She had proudly represented both Italy and Austria, competing for the Salzburg state team and earning three consecutive Salzburg championship titles in 2023, 2024, and 2025.
Her skating club, EisTeam Salzburg, shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram:
“It is with great dismay and deep sadness that we have to say goodbye to Julia Gaiser, who [died] on the 11th.
She was suddenly taken from life on September 2025, at the age of just 23. Julia was a three-time Salzburg national champion (2023, 2024 2025) and successfully started for Austria for the figure skating club Rot-Weiß Salzburg.”
The tribute went on to honor not just her athletic achievements, but the light she brought into every room:
“With her talent, discipline and radiance, she left an unforgettable mark on the ice. She was not only an outstanding athlete, but also a role model for the young ones, to whom she taught figure skating with enthusiasm and patience in children’s classes.
She was a ray of sunshine in the community whose warmth and positivity reached far beyond the band of the ice rink.”
Tributes pour in
Julia’s hometown of Brixen is also reeling from the loss. Mayor Andreas Jungmann shared a message of condolence:
“We are all deeply, deeply shaken. She was not only an outstanding athlete but also a role model for many. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Gaiser family. This is a great loss, especially for the world of sport.”
Others in the skating community emphasized her relentless dedication to her craft. Anneliese Schenk of the Italian Ice Sports Federation reflected on how Julia rose to the top despite starting later than many competitors:
“She started skating later than usual for our sport – around the age of eight, when many girls begin at just four or five. Even so, Marie managed to achieve strong results thanks to her daily training. Skating was her whole world, and she lived the sport with immense passion.”
Another bright future lost
Julia was more than just a decorated athlete. She was a teacher, a mentor, and an inspiration for countless young skaters who dreamed of following in her footsteps.
To lose her at just 23 is a heartbreaking reminder of how fragile life can be.
Sadly, the figure skating world was struck by yet another heartbreaking tragedy, coming just days after Julia’s untimely death.
On Monday, 15-year-old Matilda Ferrari was hit by a truck on her way to school in Trentino and fatally injured. The accident took place in Giustino, Italy. Emergency crews and a rescue helicopter arrived quickly, but despite their best efforts, it was too late to save the young skater.
Ferrari, remembered as ambitious, disciplined, and a rising star in her region, was considered one of the brightest young skating talents on the ice.
According to local reports, the accident occurred as she was crossing an intersection. Some outlets suggested she may have been trying to catch a bus, though this has not been officially confirmed. Authorities are still investigating the exact circumstances.
The tragedy has left the Italian mountain village in shock. Mayor Manuel Cosi described it as a “moment of great sorrow” and offered his condolences to the Ferrari family. “Giustino has lost a star,” he said.
A role model for all
Her club has also paid tribute to Matilda on Instagram.
”You were an incredible figure skater, full of passion and determination, with big dreams and even bigger ambitions. You never gave up in the face of injury or setbacks. Last season, after a long break due to a knee problem, you fought your way back to claim a magnificent third place in the Coppa Italia finals, proving to everyone your strength, willpower, and dedication.
Last year, you were also part of Team Ice Secret, our synchronized skating team, where you shared joy, emotion, and unforgettable moments with your teammates.
A sweet, sunny, and strong-willed girl, you were a role model for all, a shining example for younger athletes, especially your little sister Greta, who has always admired and supported you.”
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