Snowstorm Delays Women’s Olympic Freeski Big Air Final at Livigno Park

Bassyonni

Published: February 16, 2026 3:41 PM ET

Snowstorm Delays Women’s Olympic Freeski Big Air Final at Livigno Park

A recent snowstorm at Livigno Snow Park caused significant delays for the women’s Olympic freeski big air final. The event, part of the Milan Cortina Olympics, was postponed by 75 minutes from its original schedule on February 16, 2026.

Delay Details

Initially, organizers announced that the final would begin at 9 p.m. local time. However, the competition finally kicked off at 8:45 p.m. Workers employed shovels and portable snowblowers to clear the course during the wait.

Competitors in the Final

Among the athletes competing were Canadians Megan Oldham and Naomi Urness. Oldham topped the qualifying rounds and had previously secured a bronze in women’s freeski slopestyle, following a serious crash earlier in the Olympics.

Snow Park Challenge

The big air competition is notorious for its demanding nature. Athletes launch from a 55-meter jump, gaining speed on a steep 40-degree slope before attempting complex tricks off a five-meter kicker.

Qualifying speeds for athletes reached over 50 km/h.
Judges evaluate performances based on difficulty, execution, amplitude, and landing.

Injuries and Withdrawals

The challenging conditions have led to injuries among competitors. Notably, Mathilde Gremaud of Switzerland suffered a hip injury during practice and was taken off the course on a stretcher. Gremaud had previously won a bronze medal in big air at the Beijing Olympics.

Additionally, Anouk Andraska from Switzerland withdrew from the final due to a wrist injury sustained during training.

Incidents During Competition

The danger of the event was also highlighted by a severe crash involving teenage Finnish skier Elias Lajunen during the qualifying rounds. His crash resulted in a dramatic broadcast interruption until medical personnel ensured his safety.

The challenges faced at Livigno underscore the high stakes and perils of the freeski big air event. As athletes compete in one of the most exhilarating disciplines, their resilience and determination continue to shine even amid adversity.