Lindsey Vonn in Stable Condition After Terrifying Crash at 2026 Winter Olympics
Olympic skiing legend Lindsey Vonn is in stable condition after suffering a frightening crash during the women’s downhill final at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.
The 41-year-old American, a five-time Olympian and one of the sport’s most decorated athletes, crashed just 13 seconds into her downhill run when her ski pole caught a course gate, causing her to lose control and tumble at high speed down the Olimpia delle Tofane course.
Medical personnel rushed to her side immediately, and Vonn was eventually airlifted off the mountain by helicopter and taken to a hospital for further evaluation. The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team confirmed she is under the care of American and Italian physicians and remains in stable condition.
Vonn’s sister, Karin Kildow, was present at the event and spoke emotionally about the crash, noting how quickly the incident unfolded and how frightening it was for everyone watching.
The crash brought a somber moment to the games, cutting short Vonn’s dramatic comeback attempt. Earlier in the week, she had competed despite recently suffering a ruptured ACL, a major knee injury she sustained just days before the Olympics — a testament to her determination to compete one last time on the Olympic stage.
Vonn’s crash not only ended her run in the downhill event but also raised concerns about her ability to continue competing at the Olympic level this year. Her teammate Breezy Johnson went on to win gold in the event, but the mood among Team USA and fans was subdued as they processed what happened to the ski legend.
Fans, fellow athletes, and sports figures around the world have since expressed support and well-wishes for Vonn, highlighting her courage and resilience throughout her remarkable career.