In a tragic turn of events, Margot Simond, a promising young French skier, lost her life during training at Val d'Isère on April 24, 2025. The 18-year-old was preparing for the Red Bull Alpine Park event, which was set to take place over the weekend, when the accident occurred shortly before 1 PM.
According to a statement from Red Bull, Margot was participating in training at the Domaine de l’Envers de Bellevarde when she suffered a fatal fall. Despite the immediate intervention of a medical emergency team, they were unable to revive her. The heartbreaking news has left the skiing community in mourning, prompting the cancellation of the highly anticipated event.
The Red Bull Alpine Park, designed by Olympic slalom champion Clément Noël, featured a challenging course that included a start from six meters high, a forest of pickets, flying obstacles, and a ten-meter jump into a tunnel. This unique format was meant to create a thrilling duel between skiers, but the tragedy has overshadowed the excitement that was to unfold.
Margot Simond was not just a participant; she was a rising star in the skiing world. She had recently claimed the title of French junior slalom champion in March 2025 at Les Ménuires and had represented France at the 2025 European Youth Olympic Festival in Bakuriani, Georgia, just a few months prior. Her talent and determination were evident, and she was seen as a bright future prospect for French skiing.
The Fédération Française de Ski (FFS), along with the Comité de ski de Savoie and the club des sports des Saisies, expressed their deep sorrow in a joint statement on social media. They referred to Margot as a "young competitor in full bloom" and extended their heartfelt condolences to her family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.
In a show of solidarity, the French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF) also shared their condolences, highlighting Margot's achievements and the loss felt by the entire sporting community. David Lappartient, the president of CNOSF, paid tribute to Margot, stating, "I extend all my condolences on behalf of the French sporting movement to the family of Margot Simond following her tragic death today."
In the wake of this incident, an investigation has been launched by the Albertville prosecutor's office to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident. Details regarding the specific nature of the fall remain unclear, but it has been confirmed that no other skiers were involved in the incident.
As the skiing community reflects on this tragic loss, many have taken to social media to share their grief. French skier Nastasia Noens, a world champion in team events, expressed her sorrow with a broken heart emoji, resonating the feelings of many who knew Margot or were inspired by her journey.
The Red Bull Alpine Park event, which was set to feature numerous national and international champions, was designed as a blend of slalom and slopestyle, showcasing the skills and athleticism of its competitors. However, in light of Margot's passing, the organizers made the difficult decision to cancel both the training sessions and the competition that was originally scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025.
Margot’s tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks involved in extreme sports and the fragility of life. As the investigation unfolds, the focus will be on understanding what led to this heartbreaking incident and ensuring the safety of athletes in the future.
In the coming days, tributes and memorials are expected to pour in as friends, family, and fans remember Margot Simond not just for her talent on the slopes, but for the bright future that was tragically cut short. The skiing world has lost a vibrant young athlete, and her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of skiers.
As the community mourns, they hold onto the memories of Margot's passion for skiing and her dedication to the sport. Her journey, although brief, has made a significant impact, and her spirit will continue to resonate within the hearts of those she inspired.
