STORY: U.S. skier Lindsey Vonn was airlifted by helicopter after crashing out of the women's Alpine skiing Olympic downhill on Sunday (February 8) with the race halted as she received medical attention.

The 41-year-old great, making an extraordinary comeback despite a serious knee injury, appeared to catch her right ski pole in a gate early in the run.

She lost control, lurched to the right and landed awkwardly on her side before being pitched backwards down the Olimpia delle Tofane piste.

Vonn could be heard screaming on television coverage as fans and teammates gasped in horror before a shocked hush fell on the finish area.

Teammate Breezy Johnson, the world champion who had set the fastest time, covered her eyes and looked away as a helicopter was called.

Vonn, the 2010 downhill champion, had been hoping to become the oldest Alpine skiing Olympic medallist after winning two World Cup races this year.

DESCRIPCIÓN DE IMÁGENES

SHOWS: CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, ITALY (FEBRUARY 8, 2026)(REUTERS - Access all)

1. YELLOW HELICOPTER HOVERING IN SKY OVER TOFANE ALPINE SKIING CENTRE / HELICOPTER AIRLIFTING LINDSEY VONN AFTER THE AMERICAN ALPINE SKIER CRASHED OUT OF THE WINTER OLYMPICS WOMEN'S ALPINE DOWNHILL RACE

2. HELICOPTER DESCENDING BEHIND ROW OF TREES