Schleper comes out of retirement to race for Mexico

By Published On: May 28th, 2014Comments Off on Schleper comes out of retirement to race for Mexico
Sarah Schleper de Gaxiola racing in the 2011 Flachau World Cup for the U.S. Ski Team. GEPA/Christian Walgram

Sarah Schleper de Gaxiola racing in  2011 for the U.S. Ski Team. GEPA/Christian Walgram

In May 2012, the Mexican National Ski Association made the first steps in requesting the change of nationality and consequent change of FIS license for American skier Sarah Schleper de Gaxiola.

Schleper de Gaxiola competed on the World Cup for the U.S. from 1995 to 2011 when she retired from the team. She achieved four World Cup podiums, including her only victory at Lenzerheide Finals in 2005. Although Schleper was born in Colorado, she married Mexico City native Federico Gaxiola in 2007, thus making her eligible for a Mexican passport.

Following Mexico’s request, USSA provided a letter of release to FIS and in November 2013, the FIS Council approved the change of license, allowing Schleper de Gaxiola to compete for Mexico only after receiving a copy of her Mexican passport. A copy of her passport has now been delivered to FIS, making Schleper de Gaxiola officially eligible to compete for Mexico in the upcoming season.

Schleper de Gaxiola announced on Tuesday evening (May 27) that her change of nationality was finally official.

“I am proud to announce that I have received Mexican citizenship. I aim to get back into the starting gate and perform in the World Championships Vail 2015. I was presented a letter of citizenship by the president of Mexico Señor Peña Nieto. I feel proud and excited to be a citizen of this a beautiful country,” Schleper de Gaxiola wrote on her social media pages.

Release courtesy of FIS

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