In a shocking turn of events at the Italian Absolute Championships held at Alpe Lusia, Federica Brignone, the celebrated alpine skier, suffered a serious injury during the second run of the women's giant slalom on April 3, 2025. The 34-year-old from Val d'Aosta, who recently claimed her second overall World Cup title, was transported by helicopter to Santa Chiara hospital in Trento after experiencing a severe fall.
The accident occurred when Brignone, who had posted the fastest time in the first run, lost control after hitting a gate with her arm during a high-speed descent. This unfortunate incident resulted in a displaced multi-fragment fracture of the tibial plateau and the head of the fibula in her left leg, as confirmed by a TAC scan conducted at the hospital.
The FISI Medical Commission, led by Dr. Andrea Panzeri, is closely monitoring her condition. Following initial examinations, it was decided that Brignone would be transferred to the "La Madonnina" clinic in Milan for further radiological assessments and to establish a surgical plan. "The injury is serious, and it will take several months for her to recover," stated the commission in a recent update.
As news of her injury spread, there was an outpouring of support from fans and fellow athletes alike. Brignone's fall not only marked a dramatic end to a stellar season but also raised concerns about her participation in the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, scheduled for February 2026, just ten months away.
Brignone's remarkable season included winning the overall World Cup title, as well as crystal globes for the downhill, Super-G, and slalom disciplines. With a record of 37 World Cup victories, she stands as the most successful Italian female skier, trailing only the legendary Alberto Tomba, who has 50 wins. Her achievements also include two Olympic silver medals and a bronze, alongside two world championship golds and three silvers.
On March 30, just days before her unfortunate accident, Brignone celebrated the inauguration of a ski run dedicated in her honor at Courmayeur, further highlighting her prominence in the sport. "It’s an honor; it’s something special. I’ve been emotional all winter, living through great moments," she expressed during the ceremony.
Despite the gravity of her injury, Brignone's determination is well-known. In her own words, she once said, "I win because I don’t fear danger; I trust where others don’t." This mindset has propelled her to the heights of alpine skiing, and many are hopeful that she will overcome this latest setback with the same tenacity she has shown throughout her career.
As the alpine skiing community rallies around her, the focus now shifts to her recovery and the impending surgery that will determine her path forward. The FISI Medical Commission is expected to release further updates regarding her condition and rehabilitation timeline in the coming days.
Brignone's injury not only casts a shadow over her personal achievements but also impacts the Italian national team as they prepare for the Winter Olympics. With the national title in the giant slalom now claimed by Ilaria Ghisalberti, Brignone's absence will be deeply felt in the upcoming competitions.
The alpine skiing world is holding its breath as they await news from Milan, hoping for a successful surgery and a swift recovery for their champion. As Brignone embarks on this challenging journey, her legacy as a trailblazer in the sport remains intact, and her fans are optimistic that she will return stronger than ever.
