Italian alpine sensation Federica Brignone has electrified the Tofane slopes once again, surging into the lead after the first run of the women’s giant slalom at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on Sunday.
The 35-year-old “Snow Tiger”—fresh off claiming super-G gold just days ago in a stunning comeback story—delivered a blistering Run 1 time of 1:03.23, blasting past the field and establishing a commanding 0.34-second advantage over Germany’s Lena Dürr in second place. Fellow Italian Sofia Goggia sits third (+0.46), setting up an intense battle for the podium as the second run looms.
Brignone’s explosive performance shattered an early three-way tie at the top and ignited the home crowd into a frenzy. Racing on familiar Cortina terrain, she attacked the demanding Olimpia delle Tofane course with precision and power, looking every bit the favorite for a second Olympic gold of these Games.
The achievement is all the more remarkable given Brignone’s road to recovery: she suffered a severe leg injury—including a shattered tibia, fibula fractures, and knee damage—less than 10 months ago at the 2025 Italian Championships. Doctors warned of a multi-year recovery, yet Brignone returned to competition just weeks before the Olympics and has defied the odds with dominant form.
Mikaela Shiffrin of the United States sits in seventh place after Run 1 (+1.02 seconds back), keeping her in striking distance for a potential medal push in the decisive second leg. Defending giant slalom champion Sara Hector of Sweden is tied for fourth (+0.74), adding to the drama.
With the second run set to start soon—skiers in reverse order of their first-run times—the stage is primed for high-stakes action on Italian soil. Brignone’s lead positions her perfectly for Olympic history, while the chasing pack promises fireworks.
Cortina is indeed on fire! Stay locked in for live updates as the quest for giant slalom glory unfolds. 🇮🇹🔥
