K2: Denis Urubko Back in BC, Withdraws from the Expedition

Following an unsuccessful summit attempt, Denis Urubko returned to BC this afternoon. While precise details of his foray are still awaited, it has been formally announced that he is leaving K2 winter expedition 2018; a decision which suites everyone.

“Denis Urubko, according to his convictions regarding the end of the winter season, decided to leave the Winter Expedition on K2. This decision was accepted by the participants of the expedition, who did not see any further possibility of cooperation with Denis after his independent attempt to get the top,” the Polish team wrote on their official Facebook page.

Krzysztof Wielicki reiterated the same in an interview with Desnivel, “I think he will abandon the expedition. His dream of climbing before March 1 is no longer possible. So I guess he will not be interested anymore.” When asked if Denis intended to continue, the expedition manager replied, “I will not give permission. Maybe I have to expel him from the team.”

Denis Urubko’s views about the whole episode are still awaited. 14x8000m without bottled O2, first winter ascent of Makalu and GII, new routes on Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Manaslu and Broad Peak. Extreme caution is requested before passing on a judgement towards, perhaps, the finest alpinist of this era.


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