Lindsey Vonn Hurt in Olympic Ski Race

American skier Lindsey Vonn was hurt today during the downhill race at the 2026 Winter Olympics. She crashed early in her run and was taken to get medical help. She is okay and in stable condition.
By Newsroom | Sports, Winter Olympics |

Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy – American ski legend Lindsey Vonn sustained an injury during the women's downhill event at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Reports indicate Vonn crashed early in her run and was airlifted from the course. She is currently in stable condition and receiving medical attention.

A Determined Return

The event marked a significant return for the 41-year-old skier, who had been dealing with a history of injuries. Just nine days prior, Vonn suffered an ACL rupture during a World Cup race in Switzerland. Despite this setback, she pursued an Olympic comeback in the downhill event, an endeavor described as both audacious and a testament to her persistent spirit. Medical professionals and her own team reportedly held concerns about her participation given her recent injury, yet Vonn expressed a strong desire to compete, believing a medal was within reach.

Read More: Italian Athletes Do Well at Home in Winter Olympics

Winter Olympics 2026: Vonn ‘stable’ after crash; luge, speed skating and more – live - 1

The Incident

Vonn's run in the women's downhill final, held on Sunday, was cut short approximately 13 seconds after she began. Early reports suggest her right ski pole became entangled with a course marker, leading to her fall. She tumbled multiple times before coming to rest on the snow. The severity of the incident necessitated her evacuation from the mountain via airlift.

Vonn's injury occurred within the first 13 seconds of her Olympic downhill race.

Winter Olympics 2026: Vonn ‘stable’ after crash; luge, speed skating and more – live - 2

Vonn's History of Resilience

Vonn's career has been punctuated by a series of significant injuries, including a prior titanium knee replacement. Her decision to compete in the 2026 Games, particularly in the demanding downhill discipline, underscores a deep-seated commitment to her sport and a history of overcoming physical challenges. This latest incident, while unfortunate, aligns with a pattern of calculated risk-taking inherent to her athletic pursuits.

Read More: Finnish Ski Jumping Coach Sent Home From Olympics For Alcohol Issue

Her previous injuries included a ruptured ACL just nine days before this event.

Winter Olympics 2026: Vonn ‘stable’ after crash; luge, speed skating and more – live - 3

Broader Olympic Context

The women's downhill event experienced a delay of approximately 30 minutes following Vonn's crash before resuming. In the same competition, Breezy Johnson, a teammate of Vonn's, secured the gold medal, marking the first medal for the U.S. in the current Games.

Competing Interests: Courage vs. Caution

Reports suggest a dual perspective surrounding Vonn's participation. On one hand, her tenacity and willingness to compete despite a recent, severe injury are viewed as emblematic of her legendary status and the inherent courage required in downhill skiing. This viewpoint highlights the inherent risks and demands of the sport, suggesting Vonn was fully aware of what her body could endure.

Winter Olympics 2026: Vonn ‘stable’ after crash; luge, speed skating and more – live - 4

Conversely, there were acknowledged concerns, notably from her coach, Aksel Lund Svindal, who had expressed nervousness about her competing so soon after her latest injury. This raises questions about the delicate balance between an athlete's determination and the professional assessment of physical readiness.

Expert Insight

"The science and psychology behind Vonn’s ACL decision are complex. Athletes often push boundaries, and Vonn's history demonstrates a remarkable capacity to do so." - Analysis from Article 2, referencing the underlying factors driving her decision to race.

"Obviously, you don't want anything to happen to her, but you also want her to be fast." - Aksel Lund Svindal, Vonn's coach, as quoted in Article 4, reflecting the dual desire for safety and peak performance.

Aftermath and Official Statements

The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team confirmed Vonn's "stable condition." Her sister, as reported by CNN, conveyed that the incident was "the last thing we wanted to see," underscoring the emotional impact of the crash on her immediate family.

Read More: Lindsey Vonn Hurt in Ski Race Crash

Lindsey Vonn is reported to be in "stable condition" following her crash.

Sources:

Read More: Skier Johannes Klæbo's Fast Uphill Run Becomes Famous Online

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happened to Lindsey Vonn?
Lindsey Vonn crashed during the women's downhill ski race at the 2026 Winter Olympics and got hurt.
Q: Is Lindsey Vonn okay?
Yes, she is reported to be in stable condition and is getting medical care.
Q: When did the crash happen?
The crash happened early in her race, about 13 seconds after she started.
Q: Did she race before this?
Yes, she was trying to make a comeback after another injury just nine days before this race.
Q: Who won the race?
Her teammate Breezy Johnson won the gold medal in the same race.