Italian Alpine skiing star Federica Brignone, who endured a severe double leg injury in April, has been confirmed to participate in the upcoming Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, as announced by Italy’s Olympic committee chief on Friday. Brignone, the current World Cup overall titleholder, made a remarkable comeback to the slopes in November, following a seven-month recovery period after sustaining the injury during the Italian national championships. “This morning, Federica Brignone informed me that, based on recent assessments, she is ready to compete,” stated Luciano Buonfiglio, head of the Italian Olympic Committee, at a press conference.
Despite never clinching an Olympic gold medal, the 35-year-old skier expressed her aspiration to compete at the Winter Games scheduled from February 6 to 22. Reflecting on her selection as one of the flag-bearers, Brignone conveyed her excitement, declaring it as a fulfilling achievement. She affirmed, “Since the day of the injury, it has been my motivation to fight and get back up.”
The opening ceremony, set to take place in various venues, will witness Brignone and mixed doubles curling Olympic champion Amos Mosaner carrying the Italian flag in Cortina, the Alpine town hosting women’s Alpine skiing events and curling competitions. Additionally, short track speed skater Arianna Fontana and cross-country skier Federico Pellegrino will represent the nation as flag-bearers in Milan.
