Thorsten Schröder, the well-known Tagesschau speaker, recently faced a significant setback as he sustained injuries during training for his much-anticipated participation in the Norseman Xtreme Triathlon, regarded as one of the most challenging triathlons globally. The accident occurred on Fuerteventura, where the 57-year-old Schröder was preparing for the race scheduled for August 2, 2025.
The unfortunate incident happened as Schröder, who has been passionately training for years, experienced what he described as "ein Sturz, ein Knacken, schon war das Trainingscamp vorbei, bevor es richtig angefangen hatte" (a fall, a crack, and just like the training camp was over before it even started). He shared this message through his Instagram account, posting videos of his training routine; one depicts him cycling uphill, swiftly followed by him lying on the ground with his arm injured and bandaged.
Schröder's injury—a broken collarbone—requires surgery, but he remains hopeful about his future participation. "Statt Leistungsschub auf Fuerte erstmal Pause. Und trotzdem die Hoffnung, am 2.8. fit in den Eidfjord zu springen" (Instead of boosting performance on Fuerte, it's time for rest. And still the hope to jump fitly on August 2 at Eidfjord), he expressed optimistically.
The Norseman Extreme Triathlon, infamous for its stringent demands, involves completes distances including a 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike ride, and 42.2 km run, with elevations exceeding 5,000 meters. Participants face not only physical challenges but also tough terrain and often adverse weather conditions. Schlöder's ambition to join this year’s race reflects his long-standing commitment to triathlon competitions, having previously completed Ironman events on Hawaii.
Despite the injury, Schröder remains dedicated to his commitments. His reading event originally scheduled for March 13, 2025, has now been postponed to April 17, 2025, due to this injury. He shows determination through humor, stating, "Die Lesung in Hamburg am 27.3. bleibt aber … wenn ich mir nicht noch was anderes breche" (The reading in Hamburg on March 27 remains… if I don’t break something else). This incident emphasizes not just his resilience but his continued drive to engage with his audience.
Schröder, who has been associated with NDR since 1991 and has been presenting the Tagesschau since 1999—gaining prominence as both journalist and sports enthusiast—has published several books, including "Mit jeder Faser" (With Every Fiber), where he recounts his experiences as a triathlete. This reading tour showcases not just his literature but also his personal stories, connecting deeply with his fans.
While his immediate focus will be recovery, he has kept fans updated, asserting his intention to return to the Tagesschau as scheduled from March 16, 2025. Meanwhile, his fans remain supportive and are eager to see him back not only on television but also fully engaged in athletic pursuits.
Thorsten Schröder's accident highlights the rigorous challenges faced by athletes, even those who have made their names beyond sports. It serves as a reminder of the need for caution and respect for physical limits, but more so, it reveals the spirit of perseverance within Schröder as he navigates through recovery, hoping to compete again soon.