Federica Brignone Triumphs with Olympic Gold in Super-G Comeback
Federica Brignone achieved an extraordinary milestone by winning the Olympic gold medal in the Super-G event at the 2026 Winter Olympics. This victory took place in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, marking a remarkable comeback after a devastating injury that left her unable to walk for three months.
Triumph Amidst Adversity
On February 12, 2026, Brignone made headlines by clinching her first Olympic gold medal. Just ten months earlier, she had undergone major surgery for a leg injury, including multiple fractures that required extensive rehabilitation. Despite these obstacles, she returned to competitive skiing only weeks before the Olympics.
A Magical Victory
Brignone won with a commanding time, finishing 0.41 seconds ahead of silver medalist Romane Miradoli of France and 0.52 seconds ahead of bronze medalist Cornelia Huetter of Austria. Her historic win at 35 years old makes her the oldest woman to win an Olympic gold in Alpine skiing.
- Event: Women’s Super-G
- Date: February 12, 2026
- Location: Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
- Gold Medal Time: Brignone – 0.41 seconds ahead of Miradoli
- Brignone’s Age: 35 years
Brignone’s Olympic Journey
This victory adds to Brignone’s impressive Olympic record, now totaling four medals— two from the Beijing 2022 Olympics and a previous bronze from Pyeongchang 2018. Her medals tie her with Deborah Compagnoni, making them the most decorated female Italian skiers in Olympic history.
From Injury to Champion
The journey to her Olympic gold was anything but easy. After sustaining her injury during the Italian championships, Brignone needed two surgeries and underwent extensive rehabilitation. She had a metal rod and several screws placed in her leg, making her comeback even more extraordinary.
A Celebration of Perseverance
As Brignone celebrated her victory, the Italian Air Force honored her with a display of aerial acrobatics. Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella was present to witness the triumph of a skier who overcame great odds to achieve her lifelong dream.
Brignone’s inspiring story serves as a testament to resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Her gold medal not only marks a personal victory but also brings pride to her home country of Italy.
Community Support and Messages
Fellow athletes and friends celebrated Brignone’s accomplishment. Notably, Lindsey Vonn praised her comeback on social media, adding to the accolades for the triumphant skier.
With this victory, Federica Brignone undoubtedly etched her name in Olympic history, inspiring future generations of athletes to persevere, no matter the challenges they face.
