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Swiss Radio Television

Teddy Riner: “I’ll continue until the 2028 Games and even one more year to say goodbye”

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor November 23, 2025

written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

<h1>Judo Icon Teddy Riner Extends Career to 2029, Inspires Young Fans in Switzerland – Breaking News</h1>

<p><b>GLAND, SWITZERLAND –</b> In a stunning announcement that will delight judo fans worldwide, French sporting legend Teddy Riner has confirmed he will continue his illustrious career beyond the 2028 Olympic Games, with a planned farewell competition in 2029. The news broke following a heartwarming visit to the Mont-Olivet School in Gland, Switzerland, where Riner spent time with approximately 300 enthusiastic children. This is a developing story, optimized for <a href="https://news.google.com/">Google News</a> indexing.</p>

<h2>Sharing Wisdom and a Future on the Tatami</h2>

<p>Riner, 36, spoke candidly with RTSsport after his engagement with the students at the Grand-Champ sports hall. The visit wasn’t just a photo opportunity; it was a genuine exchange, with Riner emphasizing the profound life lessons embedded within the discipline of judo. “Judo is truly the school of life,” he explained, highlighting the sport’s ability to cultivate resilience, courage, and strong interpersonal skills.  He spoke of how judo teaches individuals to navigate life’s challenges – to rise after falling, to build friendships, and to develop character.</p>

<p>Interestingly, Riner revealed he didn’t have similar opportunities for athlete interaction during his own schooling.  “I was lucky enough to be in a big club and I benefited from these moments where we could share,” he said. “I was able to gain access to some champions. So I know what that can do in a young person's head. It can put a smile on a child's face, because you never know what they're going through.” He acknowledged the potential for such encounters to offer support to children facing difficulties at home or experiencing bullying.</p>

<h2>Beyond 2028: A Legacy Continues</h2>

<p>While the joy of inspiring the next generation is clearly a driving force for Riner, his passion for competition remains undiminished.  He made it clear that retirement isn’t on the immediate horizon.  “He will continue to shine until the 2028 Olympic Games and…even one more year, until 2029, to say goodbye,” Riner stated with a smile. “I love what I do. As long as there is this pleasure, I don't see why stop.”</p>

<p><b>Evergreen Judo Insight:</b> Judo, originating in Japan in 1882, isn’t just a sport; it’s a modern martial art and combat sport created by Jigoro Kano.  Its core principles – *seiryoku zenyo* (maximum efficiency, minimum effort) and *jita kyoei* (mutual welfare and benefit) – extend far beyond the dojo, influencing personal development and societal harmony.  The sport’s emphasis on respect, discipline, and self-control makes it a powerful tool for character building, particularly for young people.  For those interested in learning more, the <a href="https://www.ijf.org/">International Judo Federation</a> website offers comprehensive resources.</p>

<h2>The Power of Athlete Role Models & SEO Considerations</h2>

<p>Riner’s commitment to engaging with young people underscores the vital role athletes play as positive role models.  His willingness to share his experiences and values can have a lasting impact on the lives of aspiring athletes and individuals facing personal challenges.  This visit, and his subsequent announcement, are prime examples of how athletes can leverage their platform for good.  </p>

<p>From an <a href="https://developers.google.com/search/docs/fundamentals/seo">SEO</a> perspective, this breaking news story benefits from high search volume keywords like "Teddy Riner," "Judo," and "Olympics."  The inclusion of location-specific terms ("Switzerland," "Gland") further enhances its relevance for local searches.  The rapid dissemination of this information through platforms like archyde.com and <a href="https://news.google.com/">Google News</a> ensures maximum visibility.</p>

<p>Teddy Riner’s decision to extend his career is a testament to his enduring love for the sport and his dedication to inspiring future generations.  As he prepares for the 2028 Olympics and beyond, his legacy as one of the greatest judokas of all time continues to grow, and his commitment to sharing the values of judo will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the world.</p>

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<img src="placeholder-teddy-riner.jpg" alt="Teddy Riner with children at Mont-Olivet School" style="width:100%;max-width:800px;">

November 23, 2025 0 comments

News

Used Tire Journey: Tracking Reveals Surprising Fate

by James Carter Senior News Editor November 16, 2025

written by James Carter Senior News Editor

The Dark Side of Swiss Tire Recycling: Illegal Exports and a Looming Waste Crisis

Every year, six million used car tires pile up in Switzerland, a seemingly mundane waste stream hiding a troubling reality. Recent investigations, involving trackers secretly embedded in discarded tires, have revealed a disturbing pattern: a significant portion aren’t being responsibly recycled, but are instead vanishing into a shadowy network of illegal exports, often ending up in countries ill-equipped to handle the environmental consequences. This isn’t just a Swiss problem; it’s a symptom of a global waste crisis, and the future of tire recycling is far more complex – and potentially damaging – than many realize.

The Tracking Experiment: A Trail of Lost Tires

A joint investigation by Mise au point (RTS) and Patti Chiari (RSI) exposed the cracks in Switzerland’s tire recycling system. Thirteen tires, all deemed unusable under Swiss regulations (less than 1.6mm tread), were fitted with GPS trackers and released into the disposal stream. The results were alarming. Only five followed the legal route to facilities like Holcim in Eclépens, where tires are incinerated at high temperatures to generate energy – a process lauded for reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Two tires were traced to Africa, definitively confirming illegal exports. The fate of the remaining six remains unknown, their trackers falling silent during transit, suggesting deliberate attempts to conceal their destination.

“The fact that six trackers simply stopped transmitting is deeply concerning,” says Dr. Anya Schmidt, a waste management specialist at the University of Zurich. “It strongly suggests a coordinated effort to evade detection, indicating a well-organized illicit network.”

From Swiss Garages to Gambian Roads: The Economics of Illegal Tire Exports

The investigation uncovered a network of unauthorized collectors, many operating with direct ties to Africa. One collector, based in Nigeria and operating from the Swiss canton of Vaud, openly admitted to purchasing used tires for as little as three Swiss francs each, exporting them to countries like Gambia where they are resold for significantly higher prices – between 7 and 20 Swiss francs. This lucrative trade incentivizes illegal activity, bypassing environmental regulations and shifting the burden of waste management to nations with limited infrastructure.

One tracked tire traveled nearly 7,000 kilometers by truck and boat, enduring a circuitous route through Switzerland and France before finally landing in Togo. This journey highlights the logistical complexity – and the lengths to which illegal exporters will go – to circumvent controls. Swiss customs officials acknowledge the problem, conducting risk-based checks on waste exports, but admit to detecting only 10-15 illicit shipments annually.

The Cement Kiln Solution: A Necessary Evil?

For tires that do enter the legal system, the primary disposal method in Switzerland is incineration in cement kilns. Holcim, a major cement producer, utilizes approximately 10,000 tonnes of tires annually as fuel, reducing its reliance on coal and lowering its CO2 emissions. This process, while not ideal, is currently considered the most environmentally sound option for tires that cannot be retreaded or otherwise repurposed.

However, even this solution isn’t without its critics. While authorities maintain that the process doesn’t cause specific pollution, concerns remain about the long-term environmental impact of burning tires, even at high temperatures. The reliance on cement kilns also highlights a critical gap: a lack of viable alternatives for end-of-life tires.

Beyond Incineration: The Future of Tire Recycling

The current system is unsustainable. While incineration offers a temporary solution, it doesn’t address the root of the problem: the sheer volume of waste tires and the lack of economically viable recycling options. Several emerging technologies offer potential pathways forward, but face significant hurdles.

Pyrolysis: Breaking Down Tires into Valuable Resources

Pyrolysis, a process that heats tires in the absence of oxygen, breaks them down into oil, gas, and carbon black – all valuable resources that can be used in various industries. However, scaling up pyrolysis facilities to handle the massive volume of waste tires remains a challenge, and the economic viability depends on fluctuating oil prices.

Devulcanization: Reclaiming Rubber for New Products

Devulcanization aims to reverse the vulcanization process, allowing the rubber to be reused in new tires or other rubber products. While promising, devulcanization is currently expensive and energy-intensive, making it less competitive than using virgin rubber.

The Rise of Circular Economy Models

Perhaps the most significant shift will be a move towards circular economy models, where tires are designed for durability, repairability, and eventual recycling. This requires collaboration between tire manufacturers, retailers, and waste management companies to create a closed-loop system.

The future of tire recycling hinges on innovation and collaboration. Simply burning tires isn’t a long-term solution, and relying on export markets – legal or illegal – shifts the environmental burden elsewhere.

What About Tires Still in Good Condition?

The Swiss system allows for the legal export of tires with a tread depth exceeding 1.6mm. These tires, still roadworthy, can be used for several more years, particularly in countries with less stringent safety standards. While this practice is legal, it raises ethical questions about exporting waste to developing nations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do as a consumer to help?

Extend the life of your tires by maintaining proper inflation and regularly checking tread depth. Consider purchasing tires from manufacturers committed to sustainable practices and supporting companies that invest in tire recycling technologies.

Are there any government initiatives to address illegal tire exports?

Swiss customs is increasing its monitoring of waste exports, but more resources are needed to effectively combat illegal activity. Increased international cooperation is also crucial to track and intercept illicit shipments.

Is retreading a viable option for more tires?

While retreading is a sustainable practice, it’s currently limited by cost and the suitability of certain tire types. Investment in research and development is needed to make retreading more accessible and economically competitive.

The Swiss tire recycling saga is a microcosm of a larger global challenge. As tire production continues to rise, driven by increasing vehicle ownership, finding sustainable solutions for end-of-life tires is paramount. Ignoring the problem will only lead to more illegal exports, environmental damage, and a growing waste crisis. The time for innovation – and decisive action – is now.

What are your thoughts on the future of tire recycling? Share your ideas in the comments below!

November 16, 2025 0 comments

Economy

Federal Council Wine Cellar: Exclusive RTS Visit 🍷

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy September 14, 2025

written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Switzerland’s Secret Cellar: How Political Palates are Shaping the Future of Swiss Wine

A hidden cellar beneath a Bern house holds more than just 1,200 bottles of Swiss wine; it reflects the shifting political landscape of Switzerland and offers a surprisingly affordable glimpse into the nation’s evolving tastes. Recent revelations about the Federal Council’s wine collection – and the rules governing its use – aren’t just a quirky story about government perks. They highlight a growing trend: the increasing importance of regional identity and sustainable practices in the wine industry, and a potential opportunity for smaller, indigenous producers.

The Politics of Pinot Noir: A Terroir-Driven Selection

For decades, the wines served at official Swiss government receptions have been quietly curated, adhering to specific guidelines. The collection, housed in the Béatrice de Watteville house, prioritizes Swiss wine, with a price cap of 35 francs for reds and 25 francs for whites (exceptions made for award-winning ‘crus’). But the selection isn’t random. As Jacques Chapatte, attendant for information for the federal chancellery, explained, the cellar often features wines from the home cantons of current Federal Council members. This practice, while seemingly symbolic, underscores a broader movement towards celebrating regional terroir and supporting local producers.

This focus on cantonal wines isn’t merely a matter of political preference. It’s a deliberate strategy to showcase the diversity of Swiss winemaking. Switzerland’s challenging alpine terrain and varied microclimates produce a remarkable range of wines, often in small batches. The Federal Council’s cellar, therefore, acts as a unique – and publicly funded – marketing platform for these often-overlooked wines.

Budget Constraints and the Rise of Value Wines

The annual budget of 70,000 francs, with a quarter allocated to beer and mineral water, presents a significant constraint. As Antoine Sicard, 2023 Best Sommelier in Switzerland, points out, acquiring truly prestigious Swiss bottles within these limits is difficult. This limitation, however, isn’t necessarily a drawback. It forces a focus on quality value wines – those offering exceptional taste and character at an accessible price point. This trend aligns with a growing consumer demand for affordable, high-quality wines, particularly among younger demographics.

Beyond the Budget: Future Trends in the Federal Cellar

The current selection, while successful in representing Swiss wine, could benefit from greater diversity, according to Sicard. He suggests incorporating lesser-known indigenous grape varieties, further enriching the cellar’s representation of the country’s winemaking heritage. This is a key area to watch. Consumers are increasingly seeking unique and authentic experiences, and wines made from rare or local grapes offer precisely that.

Several trends suggest a potential evolution of the Federal Council’s wine cellar in the coming years:

Increased Focus on Sustainability: Swiss vineyards are increasingly adopting sustainable and biodynamic practices. Expect to see more wines from producers committed to environmentally friendly winemaking featured in the cellar.
Emphasis on Indigenous Varieties: Grape varieties like Amigne, Petite Arvine, and Humagne Rouge are gaining recognition for their unique flavors and regional character. These are likely to become more prominent in the selection.
Direct-to-Producer Ordering: While the Watteville house serves as the primary source, the option to order directly during major events suggests a potential for increased flexibility and direct support for smaller producers.
Transparency and Public Engagement: The recent access granted to RTS demonstrates a growing trend towards transparency. Further public engagement, perhaps through online tastings or virtual tours of the cellar, could enhance the cellar’s role as a cultural ambassador for Swiss wine.

The Broader Implications for Swiss Winemaking

The Federal Council’s wine cellar isn’t just about government receptions. It’s a microcosm of the broader Swiss wine industry. The emphasis on regionality, affordability, and sustainability reflects key trends shaping the future of wine consumption globally. The cellar’s choices can influence perceptions, drive demand, and ultimately support the growth of Swiss winemaking. The Swiss wine industry, while small compared to global giants, is poised to benefit from these shifts, particularly as consumers increasingly prioritize authenticity and environmental responsibility. Swiss Wine Promotion offers further insights into the industry’s initiatives.

What are your predictions for the future of Swiss wine and its role on the international stage? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

September 14, 2025 0 comments

Economy

Valais Real Estate Scam: Projects Face Collapse – RTS.ch

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy August 27, 2025

written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

The Rising Tide of Construction Nightmares: How Swiss Loopholes Enable Repeat Offender Builders

Over 1.6 million Swiss francs are currently claimed from the promoters of a Valais construction company now facing criminal complaints for scam and breach of trust. But the financial loss is only the beginning. A growing number of homeowners are discovering a disturbing pattern: builders abandoning projects riddled with defects, declaring bankruptcy, and then simply…starting again. This isn’t an isolated incident; it’s a symptom of a legal framework struggling to keep pace with increasingly sophisticated, and potentially predatory, construction practices.

From Dream Homes to Mold and Delays: The Human Cost

Nadia, a resident of Aproz, is spending her seventh month sleeping on a sofa, forced out of her bedroom by pervasive mold. Catia and her partner in Chamoson are still awaiting a habitation license for a villa with an unfinished terrace and a non-existent swimming pool. These are just two of a dozen homeowners who entrusted their savings – and their dreams – to the same Valais-based real estate company, now embroiled in legal battles. The stories are chillingly similar: promises of “turnkey” projects, followed by escalating delays, shoddy workmanship – including water infiltration, defective plumbing, and structural flaws – and ultimately, abandonment.

The Cycle of Bankruptcy and Rebirth

The company in question has already declared bankruptcy, but the director has reportedly created two new companies to continue operating in the real estate sector. This ability to seemingly circumvent accountability is fueling outrage among those left with unfinished homes and mounting debts. “How can they leave abandoned sites and then just open other companies?” asks Catia, echoing the frustration of many. “We feel betrayed.” This pattern raises serious questions about the effectiveness of current regulations in preventing unscrupulous actors from exploiting loopholes.

A Legal Framework Falling Short

While a recent federal law has expedited bankruptcy proceedings for companies failing to meet their public contribution obligations, Valais State Councilor Mathias Reynard argues it’s insufficient. “We should be able to fight against these inadmissible practices…and prevent them from relaunching a box immediately,” he stated, highlighting the current lack of tools to effectively combat this cycle. The tension lies in balancing economic freedom with consumer protection – a challenge Switzerland, and many other nations, are grappling with.

The Role of Payment Obligations and Cash Flow

The director of the bankrupt company claims that non-payment by customers contributed to cash flow difficulties, ultimately leading to bankruptcy. While customer payment issues can undoubtedly impact a project, the sheer scale of the complaints and the repeated pattern of company formation suggest a more systemic problem. It’s crucial to examine whether these payment disputes are genuine causes or convenient excuses masking deeper financial mismanagement or intentional fraud. A thorough investigation is needed to determine the true sequence of events and identify any potential red flags that were missed.

Beyond Valais: A Growing Trend in Construction Fraud?

This situation in Valais isn’t necessarily unique. Across Europe and North America, reports of construction fraud are on the rise, often involving similar tactics: overpromising, cutting corners, and abandoning projects when faced with financial pressure. The increasing complexity of modern construction projects, coupled with supply chain disruptions and labor shortages, creates fertile ground for unscrupulous builders to exploit vulnerabilities. The rise of construction fraud statistics demonstrates a clear upward trend, highlighting the need for increased vigilance.

The Impact of Non-Compliant Construction

Beyond the immediate financial losses, non-compliant terraces, unfinished works, and mold pose significant health and safety risks. Water infiltration, for example, can lead to structural damage and the growth of harmful mold, impacting indoor air quality and causing respiratory problems. Furthermore, non-compliant structures may not meet safety standards, potentially endangering occupants. This underscores the importance of rigorous building inspections and adherence to established regulations.

Protecting Yourself: Due Diligence and Contractual Safeguards

So, what can prospective homeowners do to protect themselves? Thorough due diligence is paramount. This includes verifying the builder’s credentials, checking references, and obtaining independent inspections at various stages of construction. Critically, scrutinize the contract. Ensure it includes detailed specifications, clear payment schedules tied to milestones, and robust clauses addressing potential delays, defects, and dispute resolution. Consider engaging a legal professional to review the contract before signing. Furthermore, explore options for performance bonds or guarantees, which can provide financial protection in case of builder default.

The case in Valais serves as a stark warning. The pursuit of a dream home shouldn’t turn into a financial and emotional nightmare. A stronger legal framework, coupled with increased consumer awareness and proactive due diligence, is essential to safeguard homeowners and ensure a more ethical and transparent construction industry. What steps will you take to protect your investment in your next construction project? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

August 27, 2025 0 comments

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