Federica Brignone talks about her journey back. © Pentaphoto

Brignone offers insights: "The pain is there"

Federica Brignone attracted attention last week with her first giant slalom training session since her serious injury. Now the Italian has spoken out about her comeback.

30 December 2025

From: leo

In early April, Federica Brignone suffered multiple fractures of the tibial plateau and fibular head, as well as a torn cruciate ligament in her right knee. After this diagnosis became public, only the most optimistic believed the 35-year-old would be able to participate in the Olympic Games in her home country. However, Brignone is well on her way to achieving a miracle. Just a few days ago, the Italian Winter Sports Federation (FISI) announced that she will be able to compete in the Olympic Games in Italy. Pictures of the reigning overall World Cup winner's giant slalom training.

During the book launch of her mother Maria Rosa Quario, the Italian skier spoke about her health. "The pain is there, I can't deny that. But thankfully, it's getting better day by day," the 37-time World Cup winner told RAI. "I still have a lot of training kilometers to go. Normally, I complete seven months of ski preparation before I compete in races. Now I have to compress that into two months."

Gradually increase intensity

According to Brignone, the training load is not comparable to that of a race. "It's taken me eight months to get my body back in shape. But it's not yet in the same condition as before the injury. I'm still missing runs on difficult snow conditions, with bumps," says Brignone, who nevertheless remains optimistic. "I will try to present myself in the best possible condition at the Olympic Games."

Working on the comeback: Federica Brignone © Pentaphoto

However, one thing is certain: if the 35-year-old doesn't make the necessary progress next month, she will not compete in Cortina d'Ampezzo. "I won't take a spot away from any teammate if I'm not feeling well. Besides, no one would nominate me because other athletes are simply faster. Competing and then holding back is out of the question for me," Brignone stated.

The question remains: Will Brignone compete in the World Cup before the Olympic Games? Rumors have been circulating in recent days that she is aiming for the giant slalom in St. Vigil on January 20th as her comeback date. The first Olympic event in Cortina is scheduled for February 8th.