Max Riese Accident, Salzburg, AU Death, Obituary – Cycling Community Mourns Reported Loss

The ultra-endurance cycling community is mourning the reported death of Max Riese, an accomplished gravel cyclist, bikepacking athlete and endurance rider whose passion for adventure took him across some of the most demanding cycling routes in Europe and beyond.

Riese was reportedly killed in a cycling accident on September 15, 2026, near Berchtesgaden in Bavaria, Germany. Official emergency and police information confirms that a 36-year-old racing cyclist from Saxony who lived in the Salzburg area died following a serious accident on the Roßfeld Panoramastraße. However, authorities have not publicly identified the cyclist by name in the reports reviewed.

The victim has been identified in circulating reports as Max Riese, although that identification remains reported rather than officially confirmed.

According to information from Berchtesgaden police relayed by the Bavarian Red Cross, the cyclist was found seriously injured on the roadway approximately one kilometer before the northern toll station. A woman discovered the injured rider and contacted emergency services at around 8:20 p.m.

Investigators believe the cyclist may have collided with a deer while traveling downhill. Evidence at the scene reportedly indicated possible contact with wildlife, although no animal was found during the initial search. The bicycle was severely damaged, and the cyclist’s injuries proved fatal despite emergency efforts.

Authorities continue to investigate the exact circumstances of the crash. A technical expert was called to assist investigators, while police also sought potential witnesses who may have seen what happened.

Riese was known in cycling circles for gravel riding, bikepacking and unsupported ultra-endurance events. His cycling profile described him as an outdoor enthusiast, ultra-endurance cyclist and alpine mountaineer. He was associated with demanding events including the Silk Road Mountain Race, Atlas Mountain Race, Hellenic Mountain Race and Transcontinental.

One of his most notable achievements came in August 2025, when he completed a Triple Everesting challenge on Salzburg’s Gaisberg. The feat involved accumulating approximately 26,553 meters of elevation gain, equivalent to climbing Mount Everest three times, over roughly 37 hours.

Beyond racing, Riese contributed to the adventure-cycling community through route projects, bikepacking content and his work with gravgrav. His connection to the cycling world extended to Cervélo, which listed him among its ambassadors.

His reported death has left fellow riders and members of the gravel and ultra-endurance community mourning an athlete remembered for his determination, adventurous spirit and commitment to exploring the limits of endurance.

At the time of publication, authorities had confirmed the death of a 36-year-old cyclist matching the reported circumstances but had not publicly named him. Until a family member, cycling organization or appropriate authority confirms the identification, reports naming the victim as Max Riese should be treated with caution.

The investigation into the fatal accident remains ongoing.