Lindsey Vonn Airlifted After Crash Before Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn’s final downhill race ahead of the Winter Olympics took a frightening turn on Friday when the celebrated U.S. skier crashed during the World Cup event in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. At 41, Vonn was airlifted from the course and is now facing uncertainties about her participation in the upcoming Milan Cortina Games, just a week away.
Why It Matters
Vonn, a prominent figure in skiing, was anticipated to be a major competitor at the Olympics, particularly after making a remarkable return to the sport last season. Her injury raises concerns not only for her personal aspirations but also for the visibility of women’s skiing on the Olympic stage. The potential absence of such a star athlete could impact audience engagement and the overall spirit of the competitions.
Key Developments
- Vonn crashed after losing control while landing a jump, becoming the third skier to crash during the race.
- After attending to her injuries on-site for about five minutes, Vonn skied slowly down the course, visibly in pain and clutching her left knee, before stopping for medical assistance.
- The race conditions were described as difficult due to low visibility, leading to its cancellation shortly after her accident.
- The International Ski and Snowboard Federation’s CEO reported that Vonn was experiencing knee pain but expressed hope that her Olympic participation might still be possible.
- Vonn’s planned Olympic events include the women’s downhill on February 8, as well as the super-G and team combined events.
Full Report
The Crash
Vonn was the sixth racer to compete in the downhill segment and initially clocked the fastest time at the first checkpoint. However, upon landing a jump, she was thrown off-balance and subsequently tangled in safety nets. Two other competitors, Nina Ortlieb and Marte Monsen, had also crashed earlier in the run.
Upon receiving medical care for her injuries, Vonn managed to ski to the finish line but exhibited clear signs of discomfort. She ultimately required airlifting to receive more comprehensive medical evaluation, positioned in the helicopter with medical personnel attending her.
Team and Community Response
Vonn was seen exchanging an emotional embrace with teammate Jacqueline Wiles prior to being taken for medical assessment. Wiles had been leading the race when it was canceled. Reports indicated that Vonn’s expression was one of concern, an understandable reaction given her history of injuries and the gravity of her situation.
Race Conditions
The course was marred by challenging conditions, with several competitors commenting on poor visibility due to falling snow. This contributed to an overall sense of danger, as athletes struggled to navigate the bumpy terrain. Romane Miradoli of France expressed that the lack of visibility made the race particularly hazardous for skiers.
Context & Previous Events
This incident marks Vonn’s return to competitive skiing after a lengthy recovery, following multiple injuries throughout her career. In 2013, she sustained severe injuries at Schladming, Austria, during a similar downhill competition, which resulted in her missing the 2014 Sochi Olympics. In her comeback last season, Vonn had achieved significant success, securing two race victories and finishing on the podium in several events, maintaining her status as a top performer in downhill skiing.
The atmosphere in Crans-Montana was also affected by recent tragic events, including a devastating bar fire that claimed the lives of 40 individuals, casting a somber mood over the racing community. A minute of silence was observed in honor of the victims prior to the race.
