As the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics approach in February, American alpine skiing stars Lindsey Vonn and Mikaela Shiffrin have extended encouragement to Italy’s Federica Brignone, who is battling back from a severe injury sustained last spring.
Brignone, a multiple Olympic medalist and World Cup champion, suffered a double leg fracture during a giant slalom crash at the Italian National Championships in April 2025. After months of intensive rehabilitation, she returned to snow training in late November 2025, marking a key milestone just weeks before the Games.
Recently, Brignone shared an update on Instagram from her training sessions in Valle d’Aosta, Italy, captioning it: “Back in the gates after a looong time; training home was amazing!” Vonn responded enthusiastically with “Yessss!!! 💪🏻💪🏻,” while Shiffrin added a supportive “🔥” emoji.
Brignone has been named one of Italy’s four flagbearers for the Opening Ceremony on February 6, 2026, underscoring her significance to the host nation. Alpine skiing events are scheduled from February 7 to 22.
Meanwhile, both Vonn and Shiffrin are in top form heading into the Olympics. At 41, Vonn has continued her inspiring comeback, securing her 83rd career World Cup victory in the downhill at St. Moritz last month and earning multiple podiums this season. She has also bolstered her team by adding two-time Olympic champion Aksel Lund Svindal as a coach.
Vonn praised the collaboration, noting their long history: “I have known Aksel for 20 years… He knows a lot about skiing and has won almost everything.” Svindal, in turn, described working with Vonn as an exciting challenge.
Shiffrin, the most decorated alpine skier in history, has dominated the technical events, recently claiming her 106th World Cup win.
The mutual support among these elite competitors highlights the camaraderie in the sport as they prepare for what promises to be a thrilling Olympic showdown on home snow for Brignone.
