Dubai-Based Golfer Among Dead After Swiss Alps Ski Resort Fire
Tragic blaze at Crans-Montana’s Le Constellation bar claims the life of a rising Dubai golfing talent.
- Publish date: since 11 hour Reading time: 3 min reads
A devastating fire that tore through a crowded bar at a Swiss Alps ski resort during New Year’s Eve celebrations has claimed the life of a Dubai-based golfer, marking one of the tragedy’s most heartbreaking losses.
Emanuele Galeppini, a 17-year-old junior golf prodigy originally from Genoa, Italy, was named as one of the victims after the blaze engulfed the Le Constellation bar in the resort town of Crans-Montana on the night of January 1. Swiss authorities have said around 40 people were killed and more than 115 were injured, many seriously, in what has become one of the deadliest recent incidents in the region.
Galeppini, who lived and trained in Dubai with his family, was widely regarded as a rising star in the amateur golf scene, having competed in major junior tournaments across Europe and the Middle East. He had recently clinched wins in prestigious events, including the 2025 Omega Dubai Creek Amateur Open, solidifying his reputation as one of the region’s most promising young athletes.
The Italian Golf Federation, mourning his passing, described him in a statement as a young athlete who “carried with him passion and genuine values,” and expressed deep condolences to his family, friends and all who knew him.
Galeppini had been visiting the ski resort with friends and family to celebrate the New Year when the fire broke out around 1:30 a.m. local time at the popular bar. His companions managed to escape and were taken to local hospitals, although authorities continue to work on identifying other victims amid the chaotic aftermath.
Tragedy at Le Constellation
The fire, which officials believe may have been triggered by sparklers or candles in the crowded establishment, spread with stunning speed, engulfing the venue’s wooden interior and trapping revelers. Dozens of guests suffered severe burns, and rescue teams faced overwhelming challenges amid smoke and chaos.
Local and international emergency services have mobilised resources, with more than 100 people still being treated in hospitals across Switzerland and neighbouring countries. Authorities have stressed that the final death toll could rise as DNA and dental analyses continue to identify badly burned victims.
International Mourning and Response
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the global sports community and among expatriate families in the UAE, where Galeppini had made his home. Fellow golfers, coaches and fans have paid tribute on social media, remembering him as a dedicated and joyful competitor whose life was cut tragically short.
Swiss officials have declared several days of mourning in the Valais canton, while investigations into the cause and safety protocols at the venue continue. Meanwhile, families of the missing await news, clinging to hope amid deep sorrow.
As the Alpine community grapples with this catastrophe, the memory of young talent like Galeppini — taken too soon amid the festivities — underscores the profound human cost of the disaster.