FC Bayern Munich's annual ski trips have long been more than just winter getaways; they are cherished traditions filled with camaraderie and unforgettable memories. From wild descents down the slopes to memorable après-ski parties, these trips provided the perfect opportunity for the stars of the Bavarian football club to strengthen their bonds off the pitch.
The club's members' magazine, 51, recently reflected on these ventures, taking readers back to the mountains where togetherness and fun were the focus rather than competitive skiing prowess. One song, Wolfgang Ambros' iconic "Schifoan," set the mood, its catchy chorus echoing through the après-ski gatherings as players let loose after exhilarating downhill runs.
Looking back to the 1990s, the FC Bayern players frequently visited ski resorts like Hochgurgl and Zürs, Austria. The winter break was considerably longer then, allowing the non-national team players to indulge fully in skiing and socialize with their teammates. This period was noted for long-lasting friendships and legendary evenings filled with laughter and stories.
The innovative idea of these ski trips came from former general manager Uli Hoeneß and vice president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. Aimed at wrapping up the first half of the Bundesliga season, these excursions created not only memorable experiences but also laid the groundwork for team-building, which is now seen as integral to modern sports organizations.
During the ski trips, players could often be found enjoying schnapps served personally by Rummenigge himself, all the meanwhile accompanied by playful antics. Lothar Matthäus would provide musical support on his horn, and, on one memorable occasion, Christian Nerlinger even puckered up to give a stuffed moose a kiss, embodying the lighthearted spirit of these gatherings.
Despite the fun, not all experiences were without challenges. For some players unaccustomed to the snow, skills like braking posed challenges, leading to minor accidents—a normal part of learning to ski, it seemed. “Ski instructor” Klaus Augenthaler was known to keep things under control, helping not only with skiing techniques but also immersing the players in the joy of the winter outings.
Efforts of players like Markus Babbel and Mehmet Scholl highlighted their dedication; they chose to stay on the slopes to recover from minor injuries rather than rest at home. Only coach Otto Rehhagel had to miss out after undergoing meniscus surgery in 1995. Yet, he too was kept abreast of the escapades and chaos, typical of team bonding moments.
One particularly amusing tale from these ski trips involved Oliver Kahn, who was skiing so fast at one point his ski goggles flew off his face. Braking was impossible, but luckily, one attentive staff member caught them mid-flight, handing the goggles back to Kahn with perfect timing. This hilarity soon became another highlight of the evening's celebrations, accompanied by the same party anthem on repeat.
Though the media coverage of these events was minimal—largely restricted to the club's own magazine—stories of fun and friendly rivalry circulated among circle of fans and the media alike. For example, one winter evening led to what local tabloids dubbed "Rangelei mit Kreuzer," where remarks circulated about Sholl being reprimanded by club leaders for stepping over the line during friendly scuffles.
The glow of nostalgia shines brightly when recalling these ski trips; those legendary nights filled with stories have now become part of Bayern Munich lore. Today, the ski outings may have morphed or become less frequent, but their enduring spirit reflects the values of teamwork and friendship—principles at the heart of FC Bayern.
Even decades later, the significance of such interactions continues to resonate. They remind fans and players alike of the times spent together, whether on the slopes or at festive gatherings, where the love for the game and the joy of being part of the team reign supreme.