CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy – Federica Brignone, defying both a recent and significant injury and expectations, captured the gold medal in the women’s super-G at the 2026 Winter Olympics on Thursday, February 12th. The victory, celebrated wildly by the home crowd at the Olimpia della Tofane course, marks a remarkable comeback for the Italian Alpine skiing star.
Just ten months ago, Brignone’s participation in these Games was far from certain. A crash during the Italian national championships left her with a shattered left leg, initially casting doubt on her ability to even walk again. Even now, she continues to compete while managing persistent pain. Despite these challenges, Brignone never relinquished her belief in herself, culminating in a triumphant performance on the slopes of Cortina d’Ampezzo.
“Every day was difficult. There were many days when I was tired, I felt pain. I couldn’t do what I wanted,” Brignone said after the race. “In other words, today was an incredible day.”
The super-G course presented a formidable challenge, featuring numerous jumps and rollers leading directly into gates. Conditions deteriorated between the course inspection and the race itself, with softening snow contributing to difficulties for many competitors. Brignone navigated the course in 1 minute, 23.41 seconds, finishing 0.41 seconds ahead of France’s Romane Miradoli, who secured the silver medal. Austria’s Cornelia Huetter claimed the bronze, 0.52 seconds behind Brignone.
Brignone’s victory was made even more special by a flyover from eight Italian military jets, trailing green, white, and red smoke, immediately following her run. The grandstands remained packed for the medal ceremony, erupting in cheers as Brignone, who also served as one of Italy’s flag bearers during the opening ceremony, ascended the podium.
“I was for sure not the favorite today. But this is the Olympics. It’s a one-day race. Anything can happen,” Brignone acknowledged, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the Games. The challenging course proved decisive, eliminating many of the pre-race favorites.
The win is particularly poignant given the circumstances surrounding Brignone’s injury. She suffered multiple fractures and a torn ACL in the April crash, requiring extensive rehabilitation. The recovery process was arduous, and the possibility of competing at the Olympics seemed remote at times. Her perseverance, however, has resulted in a career-defining moment.
The atmosphere at the ceremony was electric, with fans celebrating a home-country hero. Brignone’s journey back to the slopes resonated deeply with the Italian public, making her victory all the more meaningful. The scenes of celebration included a fan with a tiger inflatable, a testament to the passion surrounding her achievement.
Brignone’s triumph also carries historical significance. At 35 years old, she becomes the oldest woman to win an Alpine skiing medal at the Olympics. This achievement adds another layer of accomplishment to a distinguished career that already includes a silver medal in the giant slalom and a bronze in the individual combined from the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
The victory wasn’t just a personal triumph for Brignone; it was a source of national pride for Italy. The country has been seeking a dominant figure in sports, particularly after challenges in soccer and before the rise of Jannik Sinner in tennis, and Brignone has emerged as a symbol of resilience and determination.
Her brother and coach, Davide Brignone, reflected on the journey, stating that the team’s focus was simply to try and compete, not necessarily to win. He highlighted the mental fortitude required to overcome the physical challenges, noting that Brignone was able to find a sense of peace and focus amidst the pain. “I have brought only my ideas and my courage, forward for our path,” Davide Brignone said.
The win is a testament to the strong bond between Federica and Davide, a partnership that faced scrutiny when it was first formed. Brignone chose to work with her brother to create a supportive and trusting environment, a decision that ultimately proved crucial to her success.
Brignone’s gold medal in the super-G is more than just a sporting achievement; it’s a story of overcoming adversity, unwavering determination, and the power of family. It’s a “new miracle” for Italian sport, a moment that will be remembered for years to come.
