Swiss downhill racer Niels Hintermann diagnosed with cancer and will miss ski season for treatment

ZURICH (AP) — Swiss downhill racer Niels Hintermann will miss the entire ski season after being diagnosed with lymph node cancer.

The 29-year-old Hintermann, a three-time race winner on the World Cup circuit, revealed the diagnosis Wednesday at a news conference.

Hintermann noticed a swelling in his neck after an offseason training camp in South America. Cancerous tumors were detected in his neck and collar bone.

He is scheduled for chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment with recovery time of about six months possible, the Swiss ski federation said in a statement.

Swiss team doctor Walter Frey said it was hoped Hintermann will be able to return to racing in the 2025-26 season.