Alpine Star Federica Brignone Released from Hospital after Horrific Crash

An athlete's worst nightmare is suffering a season-ending, or worse, a career-ending injury. For alpine skier Federica Brignone, that nightmare may have become a horrifying reality. After experiencing a brutal crash while competing in the Italian championships, Brignone was left with excruciating injuries, including a fracture of her tibial plateau and fibular head—both in her left leg—as well as a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). These represents significant injuries for a world-class ski racer. Despite the devastating news, Brignone was seen smiling in her hospital gown and appeared to be focused on her recovery. Injury of some form is inevitable when competing at the World Cup level. Considering the extent of her injuries, her future in competition looks uncertain. But don't count Brignone out; she will attack her recovery and rehab in the same fashion as she attacks gates. She was well into her preparations for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Her final races of the year were to precede a t