Paddling Ban on the Ötztaler Ache - Impact on the 2026 OETZ TROPHY

As many of you have already learned from the media, the authorities issued a boating ban yesterday for the Lower Ötztaler Ache.

This decision is based on new water quality test results for the Ötztaler Ache. For about a month now, the wastewater treatment plant in Sölden has not been fully operational due to a severe storm and an associated mudslide. As a result, wastewater is currently being discharged into the river.

Contrary to initial reports and assurances that the discharged wastewater posed no danger, the situation has unfortunately changed based on recent measurements. The current results have prompted the authorities to take appropriate measures.

We were in close contact with the relevant authority today and learned that a regulation is currently being drafted that is expected to affect the entire Ötztaler Ache downstream of the discharge points.

Unfortunately, we must currently assume that this regulation will completely prohibit water sports on the Ötztaler Ache until further notice.

Should a comprehensive ban on boating indeed be imposed, this unfortunately also means that the OETZ TROPHY 2026 cannot take place.

We realize that this news is disappointing for many of you and may be difficult to understand. Given the information we’ve received so far regarding water quality and the assurances that came with it, this latest development comes as a surprise to us as well.

We deeply regret this situation and ask all affected athletes, volunteers, and everyone else involved for their understanding. Of course, we will closely monitor further developments and remain in contact with the relevant authorities.

As soon as new information becomes available, we will update you here as quickly as possible.

Thank you very much for your understanding and support.