Brignone Wins Super-G Gold at 2026 Olympics with Mattarella in Attendance
Italy’s Federica Brignone made history by winning the gold medal in the Super-G at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The event saw the attendance of Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella, who congratulated Brignone on her remarkable achievement.
Federica Brignone’s Super-G Victory
Competing in front of a home crowd, Brignone triumphed ten months after recovering from a severe leg injury. This victory marked a significant personal comeback, showcasing her resilience and determination. Brignone described the win as “incredible,” stating, “I never expected to win the gold.”
President Mattarella’s Visit
President Sergio Mattarella was present at the competition, personally greeting Brignone at the finish line. Amid cheers from fans, he received accolades such as “President, you’re great” and “Thank you, President.” He appeared visibly pleased, engaging with the audience and celebrating Brignone’s victory.
Familial Support
Brignone’s mother, Ninna Quario, expressed immense pride and joy at her daughter’s historic win. She remarked, “Winning an Olympic gold is extraordinary. It has been a challenging journey, and we are grateful for all the support we received.”
Impressive Performance Under Pressure
Brignone’s journey to this gold medal was filled with challenges, including a rapid recovery from injury. During her run, she focused on maintaining a smooth and fast execution rather than seeking perfection in her lines. Her performance led her to finish ahead of the competition, eventually besting French skier Miradoli and Austrian Huetter, who completed the podium.
Remarks from Fellow Athletes
In a show of sportsmanship, fellow competitor Sofia Goggia congratulated Brignone, acknowledging the difficulty of returning to competition after injury. Goggia stated, “It’s an honor to celebrate Brignone’s victory after all she’s been through.”
Upcoming Events and Historical Context
The Super-G was part of a significant day for Italian athletes, with Francesca Lollobrigida also competing in the speed skating 5000 meters, seeking her second medal after winning gold in the 3000 meters. Arianna Fontana was set to compete in the short track, aiming to tie the Olympic medal record held by legendary fencer Edoardo Mangiarotti.
- Event: Super-G Women’s Finals
- Gold Medalist: Federica Brignone (Italy)
- Date: February 12, 2026
- President: Sergio Mattarella attended the event
Brignone’s victory has solidified her place in Olympic history and symbolizes the perseverance of athletes in the face of adversity. As Italy continues to showcase its athletic talent at the Olympics, the nation awaits the outcomes of upcoming competitions with great anticipation.
