Keller and Flückiger selected for the Olympic Games

Milestone for the Swiss MTB team Thömus maxon. The two team leaders Alessandra Keller and Mathias Flückiger have been selected by Swiss Olympic for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. For Keller, it will be the first Summer Games; Flückiger will be taking part in the biggest and most important MTB race for the third time in a row after Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020.

Keller: “Proud of how I’ve developed over the last three years”

Alessandra Keller’s selection came as no surprise. The 28-year-old from Nidwalden is the current world number 1, won both overall World Cup rankings in 2022 and has been the leading Swiss mountain biker for three years. Nevertheless, the official announcement of her selection meant a lot to her: “This selection means I’ve achieved a big goal of mine. The road to the Olympic Games was a long process of developing into an athlete who is consistently one of the best in the world. It makes me proud to see how I have worked over the last three years. I am grateful to my team and those close to me who have always believed in me and supported me. I want to be in the best possible shape at the start in Paris and fight for a medal if possible.”

Flückiger: “After the past 21 months, this means a lot”

With an impressive comeback, Mathias Flückiger secured his place in the Swiss Olympic team in the last race. He was overjoyed the morning after the selection: “Due to the huge challenges of the last 21 months, the selection means a lot to me. My recipe for success was that I was able to concentrate on myself despite the many side events. I have a lot of experience and know how I have to prepare to be in top form at the start on day X. My goal for Paris will be very personal and not based on a ranking. Nevertheless, one thing is clear: a medal is my goal. But I want to concentrate fully on myself and exploit my full potential. I’m looking forward to the road to Paris. It will be very exciting!”

Näf: “Alessandra and Math are among the medal candidates”

For team owner and team manager Ralph Näf, the double selection of Keller and Flückiger also means a lot: “The Olympics have been an ongoing topic for a year and a half. The fact that we can provide half of the Swiss team makes me proud. I’m proud that our plan has worked out. Proud of Alessandra because she has gone through an impressive process since not being selected for Tokyo. Proud that Math has been able to handle this enormous pressure. Alessandra and Math will be among the medal candidates in Paris. We are looking forward to tackling the perfect preparation together.”