Former German Footballer Sebastian Hertner Dies in Tragic Montenegro Ski Lift Accident

Sebastian Hertner, a former professional German footballer aged 34, died in a chairlift accident at the Savin Kuk ski resort in Montenegro. The incident involved two chairlift chairs colliding under unclear circumstances, causing Hertner to fall approximately 70 meters. His wife, who was also on the lift, was injured but rescued.

Hertner had recently joined ETSV Hamburg in the Oberliga and served as the team's captain. Throughout his career, he played for several clubs including FC Erzgebirge Aue, TSV 1860 München, SV Darmstadt 98, VfB Stuttgart, and Schalke 04, and was part of Erzgebirge Aue's promotion-winning team in 2016.

The football community expressed deep condolences. SV Darmstadt 98 stated, "We will keep Sebastian Hertner in honorable memory. Rest in peace, Basti." VfB Stuttgart also extended sympathies to his family, emphasizing their intent to honor his memory. Former German national goalkeeper Timo Hildebrand took to Instagram to mourn Hertner, sharing a black-and-white photo and reflecting on the fragility of life, especially during the holiday season. Hildebrand recalled their shared moments, noting they had celebrated life together just last summer.

The tragedy underscores the suddenness of life and has prompted an outpouring of grief from those who knew Hertner personally and professionally. The circumstances of the chairlift collision remain under investigation.