Legendary Skier Lindsey Vonn Crashes at 2026 Winter Olympics — Latest Update
Lindsey Vonn, one of the most iconic names in alpine skiing history, suffered a devastating crash during the women’s downhill at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy — just 13 seconds into her run.
At 41, Vonn was making a remarkable comeback, racing with a torn ACL in her left knee — an injury she sustained at a World Cup event just days earlier.
What Happened to Lindsey Vonn? The Crash Explained
During her downhill race on February 8, Vonn clipped a gate early in the course, sending her body off balance and into a hard fall. She tumbled down the snowy slope and was left motionless on the course before medical teams responded.
After roughly 15 minutes on the hill, she was airlifted off by helicopter and transported to a hospital for urgent evaluation.
This was the second serious crash in two weeks for the U.S. ski legend — who had already ruptured her ACL in a crash just before the Olympic Games.
Injury Update: Is Lindsey Vonn OK?
Official updates from U.S. Ski & Snowboard and medical teams confirm:
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Vonn sustained a serious injury to her left leg during the downhill crash.
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She underwent emergency orthopedic surgery to stabilize a fracture in her left leg.
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The athlete is currently in stable condition and receiving care from both American and Italian medical staff.
Team officials emphasized that while the injury is severe, her life is not in danger and she’s in good hands.
Lindsey Vonn’s Comeback — From Injury to Olympics
Vonn’s journey to the 2026 Games had already been extraordinary:
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After retiring years earlier, she returned to elite competition.
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In late January, she suffered a complete ACL tear, along with bone bruising and potential meniscal damage — injuries often considered season-ending.
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Despite this, Vonn opted to compete at Milan-Cortina, determined to make history as one of the oldest Olympic alpine ski competitors.
Her grit and determination had captivated fans worldwide. Unfortunately, her Olympic dream came to an abrupt end due to this latest crash.
Teammates and World Reaction
While Vonn’s race ended early, teammate Breezy Johnson went on to win the gold medal in the downhill event — marking Team USA’s first gold of the 2026 Olympics.
Support poured in from athletes around the world, including messages of encouragement from prominent sports figures.
What’s Next for Lindsey Vonn?
At this time, medical teams are focusing on Vonn’s recovery and rehabilitation following her surgery. While the long-term timeline is unclear, the immediate priority is her health and well-being.
Fans and fellow athletes alike continue to send messages of support for one of skiing’s greatest champions, whose legacy stretches far beyond any single race.
Summary – Lindsey Vonn Crash & Injury Facts
Crash occurred 13 seconds into Olympic downhill.
Vonn was airlifted from the slope.
She underwent surgery for a leg fracture.
Official reports list her in stable condition.
Her Olympic competition has ended due to the severity of the injury.
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