Ski Champ Brignone Released Post-Leg Injury

MILAN — Federica Brignone, the reigning overall World Cup skiing champion, has been released from the hospital just five days following a serious incident during a giant slalom race where she suffered multiple fractures in her left leg. This incident required surgical intervention.

Before leaving the La Madonnina clinic in Milan, Brignone shared her recovery outlook with reporters as she was seated in a wheelchair. “I am uncertain about the duration of my recovery journey,” she expressed. “The process will unfold gradually; the following step is surgery recovery therapy starting Monday. We’ll see how my bones heal thereafter, then determine our next steps.”
Additionally, Brignone’s injuries include a torn ACL, casting doubt over her participation in the forthcoming home Olympics, which are less than a year away. Expected to be a leading figure for Italy at the Milan-Cortina Games, Brignone remains determined. “I’m not someone who gives up,” she insisted, reflecting on her resilient mindset. “I believe all events in life serve a purpose.”
Following her crash at the Italian championships in the Lusia ski area of Val di Fassa, Brignone was initially transported by helicopter to a hospital in Trento and subsequently moved to Milan where she received surgical care the same day.
“It wasn’t until after surgery that I realized the gravity of the risk I faced,” Brignone remarked. She credited the rapid response and medical intervention for preventing further complications.
On her recovery timeline, Italian Winter Sports Federation’s medical head Andrea Panzeri mentioned that it remains too early to establish a precise return schedule. “We’ll need at least 45 days before a projected timeline can be developed,” Panzeri explained.
Throughout the season, Brignone achieved victories in 10 World Cup races across three disciplines, which include five giant slaloms, three super-Gs, and two downhills. Her stellar performances continued at the world championships, where she secured the giant slalom crown and a silver medal in super-G this February. At age 34, Brignone also set a record by becoming the oldest woman to win a World Cup race.
“It was an extraordinary period in my life,” she reflected on her achievements. “But, unfortunately, as a professional skier, injury is a risk we face.”