In a massive boost for fans worldwide, Lindsey Vonn’s head coach delivered the update everyone was waiting for: the 41-year-old skiing legend is still locked in for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, even after a terrifying crash just days ago.
Chris Knight, Vonn’s personal coach, texted the Associated Press on Saturday, January 31, 2026: “No she is not racing today but preparing for Cortina as usual.” The statement came hours after Vonn sat out the World Cup super-G in Crans-Montana, Switzerland—her final tune-up race before the Games—due to the left knee injury sustained in Friday’s downhill wipeout.
The crash occurred in hazardous conditions with poor visibility and heavy snow, where Vonn was the third skier to go down in the first six starters. She lost control after landing a jump, spun awkwardly, and slammed into the safety nets. Airlifted off the course for immediate evaluation, the race was ultimately canceled for safety reasons.
Vonn quickly addressed her millions of followers on Instagram, sharing a video clip of the fall alongside a heartfelt message: “Unfortunately, I won’t be able to race today… wishing all my teammates a great race. Thank you for all of the love and support I have received. Means the world to me. Doing my best right now. 🙏🏻🤞🏻”
Her earlier post-crash update reinforced her unbreakable resolve: “I crashed today in the downhill race in Switzerland and injured my left knee… This is a very difficult outcome one week before the Olympics… but if there’s one thing I know how to do, it’s a comeback. My Olympic dream is not over.”
This latest hurdle adds to Vonn’s legendary battle log—chronic knee issues forced her retirement in 2019, but she staged an epic return in 2024 at age 40 after a partial titanium knee replacement. This season, she’s dominated the World Cup downhill circuit with multiple wins and podiums, proving age and adversity are no match for her grit.
With the women’s downhill scheduled for February 8 in Cortina—followed by super-G and the team combined—Vonn’s first Olympic event looms large. Insiders say she’s focusing on recovery and preparation, determined to chase one more chapter in her storied career.
The skiing world holds its breath, but Vonn’s message is crystal clear: She’s not done yet. The comeback queen is still in the fight, and the Olympics just got a whole lot more inspiring.
