Federica Brignone is fighting for her comeback. © ANSA / Alessandro Di Marco

Brignone's ordeal: "It tires me"

Federica Brignone is in a race against time. Italy's ski star wants to be back in top shape in time for the 2026 Winter Olympics in her home country. But weeks and months in the rehab unit are taking their toll on the ski queen's nerves.

August 03, 2025

From: cst

To be honest, it's tiring," Federica Brignone offers an honest insight into her current inner life. The Italian was a guest at the Cervino Cinemountain Festival in Breuil-Cervinia and spoke about the current phase of her career.

The last arthroscopy Brignone said it was a small thing compared to what had been going on in the past few months: "I've been working seven hours a day for four months. There are results, but I need them. With an injury like that, you could be out for a year. I, on the other hand, was able to walk normally again after three months."

Brignone's left knee may have been completely repaired, but the road back is a tough one, says the ski star: "I finally want to be a skier again. It's gnawing at me that I can't do anything. I'm not enjoying the summer; it's a tough time."

The 2026 Olympics is a big goal

The most recent surgery on her left knee was necessary to improve mobility, Brignone said. "I'm fine, it was just a minor procedure," reports Brignone, who celebrated her 35th birthday about three weeks ago. A return to skiing is currently not foreseeable – but time is running out. "I have to return as soon as possible, otherwise it will be very difficult," the Azzurra says, already looking ahead to the Olympic Games in her home country.

Federica Brignone at Jmedical, the renowned rehabilitation center of Juventus football club. © ANSA / Alessandro Di Marco

Even her brother Davide, Brignone's personal coach and trainer for years, can't estimate how long it will take for her to return: "No one can say at this point. Even the physiotherapists and doctors who treat Fede every day are having a hard time setting a timeframe. The only thing that is certain is that she will return as soon as possible."