Elias Lajunen Crash: Big Air Qualifier Incident & Injury Update

Finnish Skier Elias Lajunen Suffers Crash in Olympic Big Air Qualification

Milan, Italy – Finnish freestyle skier Elias Lajunen sustained a significant fall during the qualification round of the men’s Big Air competition at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan-Cortina on Sunday. The 18-year-old crashed after losing control during his jump, initially remaining motionless on the icy surface.

Medical personnel swiftly responded to the scene, providing immediate attention to Lajunen. He was then transported off the slope on a sled, offering a thumbs-up to spectators and medical staff – a first indication that he was conscious, and responsive. He did not return to compete further in the qualification round.

According to a statement released by the Finnish Olympic Committee, Lajunen impacted his head during the fall. He is currently conscious and has movement in all limbs, and has been taken for further evaluation.

Lajunen’s father is Samppa Lajunen, a highly decorated Nordic combined skier and three-time Olympic champion. The incident occurred during the Big Air qualification, a discipline where athletes perform aerial tricks after launching off a large ramp, judged on difficulty, execution, height, and landing.

The competition continued following a delay to allow for medical attention. Fellow Finnish skiers Elias Syrjä and Kuura Koivisto are still scheduled to compete in the Big Air event.

The crash is the latest incident to draw attention at the Winter Olympics. The event highlights the inherent risks involved in freestyle skiing, particularly in the demanding Big Air discipline.

Big Air involves performing aerial tricks after jumping off a large ramp and landing safely. The jury awards points for factors such as the degree of difficulty, clean execution, height and landing.