The 2024 Piolets d’Or awards have posthumously recognized Austrian climber Peter Habeler, acknowledging his full career and revisiting the rivalry that split him from Reinhold Messner in 1979.
1979 – Rift Between Habeler and Messner
In 1979, Habeler and Messner, who had climbed together on several high‑altitude expeditions, experienced a public falling‑out. Messner’s growing legend emphasized solo ascents and downplayed the contributions of his partners, effectively marginalising Habeler’s role.
2024 – Piolets d’Or Award Announcement
The International Alpine Committee announced that Habeler will receive a special Piolet d’Or for his lifetime achievements. The award cites his pioneering climbs, including the first ascent of an eight‑thousander without supplemental oxygen and numerous first ascents in the Himalayas and Karakoram.
2024 – Significance of the Recognition
Organisers said the honor aims to restore balance to the historical record and highlight the collaborative nature of high‑altitude mountaineering. They noted that Habeler’s contributions were essential to the successes credited to Messner.
Current Status
With the award presented at the annual ceremony in Chamonix, Habeler’s legacy is being re‑examined. The mountaineering community views the decision as a step toward acknowledging the often‑overlooked partners behind celebrated ascents.