Lindsey Vonn Crash 2026 Olympics: Airlifted After Horrific Fall in Women's Downhill on Torn ACL – Cortina Injury Update

 

Lindsey Vonn Crash 2026: Heartbreaking Fall in Women's Downhill at Milano Cortina Olympics – Latest Injury Update

February 8, 2026 – In a moment that silenced the slopes of Cortina d'Ampezzo, American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn suffered a devastating crash just seconds into the women's downhill final at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The 41-year-old legend, competing on a fully ruptured ACL from just over a week ago, clipped a gate early in her run, lost control, and tumbled violently down the Tofane course before being airlifted to the hospital.

Lindsey Vonn loses control early in her Olympic downhill run on February 8, 2026. (Photo: AP)

The crash happened almost immediately after Vonn launched from the start gate wearing bib 13. She caught an edge near the fourth gate, spun in the air, and landed hard. Medical teams rushed to her side, and after a lengthy delay, a helicopter airlifted her off the mountain – an emotional scene that brought back memories of her storied career filled with triumphs and comebacks.

Rescue helicopter airlifts Lindsey Vonn from the course after her crash in the women's downhill. (Photo: Getty Images)

"It's a very dangerous sport." – Reflection on the risks of alpine skiing, as highlighted by experts following today's events.

Just nine days earlier, Vonn had torn her left ACL, meniscus, and suffered bone bruising in a training crash. Against all odds, she decided to race with a heavy brace, determined to add to her three Olympic medals. Fans around the world are asking: Is Lindsey Vonn okay? As of now, no official injury update beyond the airlift has been released, but medical staff are evaluating her at Codivilla Hospital in Cortina.

What Happened to Lindsey Vonn Today?

The women's downhill – one of the most anticipated events of the Milano Cortina 2026 Games – turned bittersweet. While Vonn's run ended in heartbreak, her U.S. teammate Breezy Johnson claimed gold, delivering America's first medal of these Olympics.

Breezy Johnson celebrates her historic gold medal win in the women's downhill. (Photo: Getty Images)

Lindsey Vonn's Olympic Legacy

Lindsey Vonn's comeback story has inspired millions. After retiring in 2019, undergoing knee replacement, and battling injuries, her return to the Olympic stage at 41 was nothing short of remarkable. Today's crash in Cortina may mark a painful end to her final chapter, but her courage will be remembered forever.

For the latest Lindsey Vonn injury update, crash video analysis, and Olympic news, stay tuned.

Related Reading on Qalamkaar

• Winter Olympics 2022: Top Moments and Medal Winners
• The Greatest Alpine Skiers of All Time: Where Does Lindsey Vonn Rank?
• Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics: Events to Watch

Sources: Olympics.com | ESPN | NBC Olympics

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