Federica Brignone Suffers Devastating Left Leg Fracture in Crash at Italian Championships Giant Slalom

In a heartbreaking turn of events for Italian skiing, Olympic medalist and World Cup champion Federica Brignone has suffered a serious injury during the Italian Championships giant slalom race. The 34-year-old alpine skiing icon was involved in a high-speed crash on the challenging slopes of Passo San Pellegrino, which resulted in a fractured left leg, casting uncertainty over the remainder of her season and potentially her career.

The incident occurred during her second run of the race, which was marked by icy, unforgiving conditions. Brignone, who was among the frontrunners after a strong first run, lost balance while navigating a tight turn and was launched into the air before crashing violently into the snow. Medical staff rushed to the scene immediately and, after initial assessment, she was airlifted to a nearby hospital in Trento for further evaluation.

Later in the day, the Italian Winter Sports Federation (FISI) confirmed the extent of the injury—a compound fracture to the tibia and fibula in her left leg. Surgery was successfully performed within hours of the crash, and while doctors have stated that her recovery is expected to be long but positive, it remains uncertain whether she will return to competition in time for the 2025-26 season.

Brignone, one of Italy’s most successful alpine skiers in history, boasts an illustrious career that includes three Olympic medals (silver in the 2022 Beijing giant slalom, bronze in alpine combined in 2018 Pyeongchang, and another silver in 2022 combined), a 2020 overall World Cup title, and more than 50 podium finishes on the World Cup circuit. Known for her resilience, elegance on the slopes, and relentless drive, Brignone has been a role model and trailblazer for generations of Italian skiers.

News of her injury sent shockwaves through the skiing community, with fellow athletes, fans, and officials expressing their support and well-wishes across social media. Mikaela Shiffrin, Petra Vlhová, and Sofia Goggia were among the international stars who posted messages of encouragement, highlighting Brignone’s reputation not only as a fierce competitor but as a beloved figure in the sport.

“Federica is one of the toughest athletes I know,” Shiffrin wrote. “I have no doubt she’ll face this challenge with the same strength and determination she’s shown throughout her career.”

FISI President Flavio Roda also issued a statement praising Brignone’s contribution to Italian sport, adding that the federation would do everything possible to support her rehabilitation. “She is not only a champion on the slopes, but a symbol of perseverance and national pride,” Roda said. “We will stand by her every step of the way as she recovers.”

Brignone herself has yet to make a public statement, but sources close to her family suggest she is in good spirits and determined to begin her road to recovery. According to her medical team, the next few weeks will be critical in terms of managing pain and initiating physical therapy.

As Italy and the skiing world await further updates, Brignone’s injury serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in high-level alpine skiing. The incident has also reignited discussions about athlete safety, particularly in national-level competitions where course conditions can vary significantly from those on the World Cup circuit.

While it is far too early to speculate on her future in competitive skiing, one thing is certain: Federica Brignone has already cemented her legacy as one of the greatest Italian athletes of her generation. Whether or not she returns to the snow competitively, her story will continue to inspire aspiring skiers around the globe.

For now, all eyes turn to her recovery, with hopes that the same grit and grace that defined her on the slopes will carry her through this difficult chapter.