Lindsey Vonn Eyes Olympic Comeback: NPR Reports
American alpine skiing icon Lindsey Vonn faced a significant setback during the women’s downhill race at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The event took place on February 8, 2026, in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, one of her career’s most familiar venues.
Lindsey Vonn’s Olympic Comeback Cut Short
Vonn’s much-anticipated comeback was cut short when she crashed just 13 seconds into the race. The accident occurred as she navigated the fourth gate, causing her to lose balance after her right arm hit the gate. Unfortunately, this resulted in a harsh landing on her right side, forcing her to be airlifted off the mountain.
About the Crash
Vonn’s tumble happened on the Olimpia delle Tofane ski course shortly after the race commenced at 11:30 a.m. local time. Spectators watched in silence as medical personnel attended to the injured skier for over ten minutes. While Vonn’s condition remains unclear, the incident has raised concerns about potential injuries.
A Career Defined by Resilience
The 41-year-old athlete had previously announced her return to competitive skiing after retiring in 2019. Vonn’s comeback began with a partial knee replacement surgery in 2024, where she received a titanium implant in her knee. Despite a recent ACL tear at a race in Switzerland, she had demonstrated strong form this season, amassing two World Cup victories and leading the FIS standings with 84 career wins.
Cortina: A Special Place for Vonn
Cortina d’Ampezzo holds special significance for Vonn. She has celebrated numerous achievements there, including her first World Cup podium finish. Vonn expressed her motivation for returning to the Olympics, stating, “If it had been anywhere else, I would probably say it’s not worth it.”
Other Competitors
Alongside Vonn, other American skiers are also vying for Olympic medals. Notable among them is Breezy Johnson, returning after a serious knee injury before the 2022 Winter Olympics. Additionally, Jackie Wiles and Bella Wright are competing, adding to Team USA’s strong presence in alpine skiing.
Challenging Conditions
The Tofane course has faced challenging weather conditions in the lead-up to the Olympics. Fog and light snow have caused delays and cancellations of training runs, further complicating the competition.
The ski community will watch closely for updates regarding Vonn’s health and the implications for her future in the sport, as she aims to establish her legacy further with an Olympic medal. The hopes of fans are still alive, reflecting on her storied career and her indomitable spirit.
