Lindsey Vonn Provides Health Update Following Olympic Crash

Casey Halston

Published: February 9, 2026 6:54 PM ET

Lindsey Vonn Provides Health Update Following Olympic Crash

Lindsey Vonn provided an update on her health following a serious crash during the women’s downhill event at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics. The incident occurred on February 8, 2026, resulting in a leg fracture.

Lindsey Vonn’s Accident Details

At 41 years old, Vonn was already competing with a torn ACL when the crash happened. During her run, she miscalculated her positioning, veering too close to a gate. This caused her right arm to hook inside, leading to her fall.

Injury and Medical Response

Immediately after the crash, Vonn was airlifted to a local hospital in Italy. Medical staff reported that she suffered a complex tibia fracture in her left leg. Surgeons performed an operation to stabilize the fracture, but Vonn will need multiple surgeries for a complete recovery.

Reflections on Her Olympic Journey

Following the accident, Vonn took to Instagram, expressing her disappointment about not achieving her Olympic dream. “It wasn’t a storybook ending or a fairy tale, it was just life,” she wrote. Vonn emphasized the risks associated with downhill racing, noting that even a minor miscalculation can lead to severe consequences.

Vonn’s Outlook and Message

Despite her pain, Vonn stated that she has no regrets about competing. She described the experience of standing at the starting gate as unforgettable. Vonn’s resilience and spirit resonate as she asserts that taking risks is part of pursuing one’s dreams.

Inspiration for Others

“I hope if you take away anything from my journey it’s that you have the courage to dare greatly,” Vonn stated. She urged her followers to take chances and pursue their aspirations, stressing that not trying is the only failure in life.

Competitors’ Support and Reactions

Following Vonn’s accident, fellow American skier Breezy Johnson won the gold medal in the event, marking a significant achievement for the United States. Johnson expressed empathy for Vonn, acknowledging the emotional toll of competing at such a high level.

Industry Response

Johan Eliasch, president of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation, commented on Vonn’s crash, calling it tragic but a part of ski racing. He thanked her for the impact she has had on the sport and acknowledged the attention her situation has brought to skiing.