Federica Brignone has claimed gold in the women’s Alpine skiing super-G at Milano Cortina 2026, delivering a stunning performance following an injury-disrupted season.
The 35-year-old Italian soared to victory on Thursday at the foggy Tofane Alpine Skiing Centre, with France’s Romane Miradoli taking silver and Austria’s Cornelia Hütter earning bronze.
Brignone’s path back to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. In April 2025, she suffered multiple leg fractures and a torn anterior cruciate ligament at the Italian Championships, forcing her to miss much of the competitive season. Yet, just three weeks ago, she returned to World Cup competition in Kronplatz, competing in the giant slalom on 20 January.
After a 10th-place finish in the downhill on Sunday, 8 February, Brignone bounced back in today’s super-G, demonstrating skill, speed, and composure under pressure.
“It’s something incredible,” Brignone said after her victory. “I only thought about skiing, about giving it my all. I told myself it was all or nothing, but I would never have imagined winning. Something special — I never would have pictured it in my life.”
Reflecting on her mindset, she added, “I didn’t feel like I was missing Olympic gold in my career. I knew I’d already achieved the maximum, and that’s exactly why I was calm. I considered myself an outsider. I tried to do my best — I wasn’t perfect, but I focused on taking the fastest lines possible.”
Brignone’s triumph is a testament to resilience and determination, inspiring fans worldwide as she continues to compete at the highest level despite previous setbacks.
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