Déborah Marti: A New Starting Line
After more than ten years at the highest level of ski mountaineering, Déborah Marti has announced the end of her career as an elite athlete. It has been a rich, demanding, and deeply human journey that we have had the privilege of supporting for several years. This personal decision, carefully considered, is one she shares with her characteristic sincerity. We take a look back at an extraordinary path.
Déborah discovered ski mountaineering at the age of 19, following an initial background in athletics. She quickly established herself at the highest level, both in Switzerland and on the international stage.
Among her greatest successes: two bronze medals at the 2019 World Championships in Villars, in sprint and mixed relay, several Swiss sprint champion titles, and a 2nd place finish at the 2026 Patrouille des Glaciers.
But what commands admiration in Déborah is not just her track record. It is her ability to combine elite sport, family life, and academic training, as she also holds a Master’s degree in sports management.
A Decision Made in Harmony with Oneself
Ending an elite career is never a trivial matter. For Déborah, this decision was built gradually, through trials and moments of realization.
“ Returning to the highest level after my second pregnancy was a more difficult challenge than expected. In 2024, when my second daughter was born, I had the ambition to qualify for the Olympic Games. However, a family tragedy, added to the demands of preparation and life with two children, significantly complicated this project. Physically and mentally exhausted, I had to cut my season short. Last year, after a two-month break, I resumed training with motivation and found pleasure in performing again. Despite this, the results did not meet my objectives.
After 11 years on the national team, I also felt that a cycle was coming to an end. I have seen the sport, the support teams, and the generations of athletes evolve. Personal reasons, as well as a complicated relationship with the Swiss team coaches, also influenced my reflection. It is therefore with serenity, in harmony with myself and without regret, that I turn this page of my life.”
Moments That Remain Etched in Memory
” Among the most significant moments is my medal at the 2019 World Championships in Villars. Six weeks earlier, I had been injured and my participation was highly compromised, which makes this result even more special. I also remember my 2nd place at the 2026 Patrouille des Glaciers with Marianne and Maëlle. We had an exceptional race even though we were considered outsiders.
My first World Cup podium in 2017 also remains a strong memory, only two years after my debut in ski mountaineering. Finally, my fifth place at the 2022 European Championships, achieved eight months after the birth of my first daughter, represents a great personal pride. “
“These years have taught me resilience and the importance of believing in oneself, even when many people doubt it. They have also taught me to dare to dream big, to pursue my ambitions with determination, and to transform my dreams into concrete goals. More than the results, it is this confidence in my abilities and this perseverance that will remain the greatest lessons of my career.”
What’s Next?
While one chapter ends, another is already beginning and promises to be just as beautiful. Déborah is not leaving sport: she plans to take up trail running this summer, with goals for longer formats and, perhaps, a first experience in ultra-trail. Professionally, she wishes to invest herself in projects she is truly passionate about. Above all, she wants to devote more time to her family and enjoy a daily life with less travel, after many years punctuated by training and competitions.
Sports Sponsoring: Much More Than Financial Support
“ Sports sponsoring goes far beyond simple financial support: it is a true human and strategic partnership. For me, it represents a relationship based on trust, the sharing of common values, and the desire to move forward together. It allows athletes to pursue their goals under optimal conditions, while offering companies authentic, embodied, and meaningful visibility. Sport conveys strong values—commitment, resilience, performance, teamwork—that naturally resonate with the corporate world.”
“Supporting sport is therefore about investing in inspiring human stories and associating oneself with journeys that leave a lasting impact.”
Thank You, Déborah!
The entire Loyco team would like to thank you warmly for these years of collaboration, rich in shared emotions, challenges, and successes. All the best for the future on the trails, in your professional projects, and especially with your family!