Tragic plane crash claims lives of Olympic sailing leader and family

In a tragic incident that unfolded in the serene settings of Switzerland, a small aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Samedan airfield. The incident occurred on March 17, 2025, during a routine flight that was destined for Roskilde, Denmark. The Extra EA-400 propeller plane took off around 5:20 p.m. and its crash just two minutes later near La Punt Chamues-ch involved three individuals onboard, resulting in their immediate deaths. As of now, the authorities have not formally identified the victims, nor have they released information on the crash's causes, leaving many questions unanswered. Among the victims was Line Markert, the vice-president of World Sailing, whose loss has sent shockwaves through the Olympic community. Along with her partner, Andreas Christensen, and their young son, Markert was returning from a family ski trip when the plane crashed, leading to an enormous outpouring of grief and condolences from the sailing community and beyond. The International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach acknowledged Markert’s significant contributions to sport during an address, highlighting her role as an inspiring figure in sailing. Markert's death not only highlights the personal tragedy faced by her family but also raises concerns about safety regulations regarding small aircraft. Many experts are calling for a thorough investigation into the crash that might reveal potential factors that could prevent such tragedies in the future. This incident has sparked discussions on flight safety within the sporting community and has been described as a devastating blow to World Sailing, which had already been coping with various challenges amidst ongoing global events. The response from the Olympic community has been significant, as figures within the organization and beyond mourn not only the loss of Markert and her family but also the impact her passing will have on the sport itself. Calls for further support for the affected families are echoed, as the sailing community seeks to honor Markert’s commitment and contributions, ensuring that her legacy continues in the sport she loved.