Celebrity Start At The Schladming-Dachstein Ski Opening

Even before the Backstreet Boys took to the stage at the Planai Stadium that evening, Schladming was already buzzing with excitement. Following the major press conference where the new Schladming-Dachstein 2026 Summer Opening was presented, organizer Klaus Leutgeb hosted an exclusive "Styrian Get-Together" with guest of honor Mario Kunasek. Around 200 other invited guests from politics, business, tourism, culture, and sports accepted his invitation to the Congress Schladming to celebrate the start of the biggest ski opening in history.

STYRIAN GET-TOGETHER

At the exclusive event, speeches were given by Governor Mario Kunase , State Secretary for Energy, Startups and Tourism Elisabeth Zehetner , and former Oktoberfest director and mayoral candidate for Munich, Clemens Baumgärtner . Numerous decision-makers from politics, business, sports, and culture accepted the invitation to the get-together – a clear indication of the strong network and long-standing, successful collaboration between the Leutgeb Entertainment Group and its partners in the region.

In his speech, guest of honor Governor Mario Kunasek acknowledged the importance of the ski opening for Styria and emphasized the enormous appeal the event has developed both nationally and internationally. Representatives of the region also thanked Klaus Leutgeb and his teams for their courage, commitment, and visionary thinking.

“The ski opening is a powerful start to the winter season every year – full of energy, atmosphere, and true winter magic. The Schladming-Dachstein region once again demonstrates why it is one of Europe’s leading tourism and event destinations. Following last year’s impressive lineup, this year the Backstreet Boys will thrill over 50,000 visitors over three days. The economic impact and promotional effect extend far beyond the region and strengthen the entire Styria region. My thanks go to the Leutgeb Entertainment Group, the Schladming-Dachstein Tourism Association, the 4-Mountain Ski Area, and everyone who makes this extraordinary event possible.” said Governor Mario Kunasek

During the ceremony, Governor Kunasek took the opportunity to present the Governor's Medal of Recognition to organizer Klaus Leutgeb – an appreciation of his years of dedication, his exceptional willingness to take risks and his significant role in the region's tourism success.

Klaus Leutgeb immediately expressed his gratitude to the entire network behind the events: “I accept this medal on behalf of the entire Ski Opening and Summer Opening family. My sincere thanks go to the Schladming-Dachstein Tourism Association, the partners of the 4-Mountain Ski Area, and everyone involved in these fantastic projects.”

CELEBRITY LINEUP

The who's who of the Austrian celebrity and sports scene used the get-together as a meeting point and exchange platform: Among the guests were (winter) sports legends such as Nicole Trimmel , Michaela Dorfmeister, Andreas Goldberger and Thomas Morgenstern as well as ÖSV President Roswitha Stadlober .

The entertainment scene was also prominently represented – including actor Nino Ochsenknecht and musicians such as Gerry and Lisa-Marie Friedle, Paul Pizzera, Chris Steger, and Melissa Naschenweng . Representatives from leading media companies rounded out the diverse field of participants and underscored the enormous attention that the ski opening attracts.

ANTICIPATION OF THE CONCERT

As diverse as the guests were that afternoon, they all shared one thing: their immense anticipation for the Backstreet Boys, who would be taking the stage at Planai Stadium that evening. The get-together was the perfect start to an unforgettable ski opening weekend.

A strong start, great emotions, and a region making history together. Now the stage is set – for the Backstreet Boys and a ski opening evening full of goosebump moments!