Max Hauke (born 23 February 1993) is an Austrian former cross‑country skier who competed internationally in the 2010s. He represented Austria in FIS World Cup events and participated in the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea, where he competed in the men's sprint and the 15 km classical races.
Early life and education
Hauke was born in St. Johann in Tirol, Austria. He began skiing at a young age and entered the Austrian ski federation’s development program, progressing through junior national competitions.
Career
- World Cup debut: Hauke made his World Cup debut in the 2013 season, primarily competing in sprint and distance events.
- Olympic participation: At the 2018 Winter Olympics, he finished 28th in the men's sprint qualification round and 50th in the 15 km classical race.
- National competitions: He earned several podium finishes in Austrian National Championships, notably a silver medal in the sprint event in 2017.
Doping ban
In June 2021, the International Ski Federation (FIS) imposed a four‑year suspension on Hauke after he tested positive for blood doping (autologous blood transfusion) during an out‑of‑competition control in December 2019. The ban, retroactively effective from 19 December 2019, barred him from all competitive skiing activities until December 2023. Hauke appealed the sanction to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which upheld the original decision.
Retirement
Following the suspension, Hauke announced his retirement from professional skiing in early 2022. He subsequently pursued a career in sports coaching and works with youth athletes in the Tyrol region.
Personal life
Hauke is fluent in German and English and has been involved in promoting winter sports among young people in Austria. He maintains a low public profile post‑retirement.