In a highly anticipated moment for Italian alpine skiing and fans worldwide, Federica Brignone has confirmed her return to competitive racing after a devastating injury that sidelined her for nearly 300 days. The 35-year-old Italian star, reigning giant slalom world champion and former overall World Cup winner, will line up for Tuesday’s Audi FIS Ski World Cup giant slalom on the challenging Erta piste at Plan de Corones (Kronplatz).
Brignone suffered a severe double fracture to her left tibia and fibula during a crash at the Italian national championships in Val di Fassa in April 2025. The injury, which required multiple surgeries and an intensive rehabilitation process, kept her off the snow until November. With just 13 solid training days under her belt since returning to skis, Brignone described the comeback as a critical “test” rather than a pursuit of results.
Here are some powerful images capturing Federica Brignone in action during her dominant past performances in giant slalom:
Speaking to reporters in Kronplatz on Monday, Brignone was candid about the ongoing challenges: “My goal is not the result tomorrow for sure, I am not ready like I was the other years but I am here to test my performance, to test my leg, to test my mind.” She admitted to not having a single pain-free day since the injury, with discomfort persisting in her tibia, knee, and surrounding areas. “Every single day there was a moment when I thought I wouldn’t make it,” she reflected.
The decision to compete came just days ago, as her leg has shown gradual improvement “day by day, run by run.” Kronplatz holds special memories for Brignone, including a giant slalom victory in 2017 and two podium finishes.
This race serves as a pivotal checkpoint in her journey toward the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, starting February 6 in her home country, where she is expected to be among Italy’s flagbearers. While the Italian Olympic Committee has expressed confidence in her participation, Brignone emphasized a day-by-day approach: “For sure the Olympics are a big goal but I don’t know which disciplines and how many races. It depends on my leg… If I don’t feel like it, I won’t.”
The Erta slope at Kronplatz, known for its steep and demanding sections, will provide the perfect proving ground for Brignone’s recovery. The event is scheduled with the first run at 10:30 and the second at 13:30, promising an emotional atmosphere with strong home support.
Here are stunning views of the iconic Kronplatz slopes that will host this comeback:
Brignone’s resilience has inspired the alpine skiing community, and her presence on the start list alone marks a significant victory. Whether she completes the race or uses it as valuable data for future starts, the “Tigre di La Salle” is back on the slopes—testing limits, defying odds, and chasing the dream of competing at the home Olympics. All eyes will be on Kronplatz tomorrow. Forza Federica!
