Davide Brignone Focuses on Federica’s Recovery: “There’s No Deadline for the Olympics”
With reporting from AostaNews.it – original article by David Pellegrino
Davide Brignone knows what it takes to come back from injury. But this time, it’s personal—and it’s different. His sister, Federica Brignone, enters an uncertain recovery after breaking her leg at the Italian National Championships last spring. The injury came just weeks after her most dominant World Cup season yet.
Brignone, who coaches Federica and remains by her side through every challenge, says the crash deeply affected him—and forced him to put everything on hold.
A Record Season Cut Short
Federica Brignone dominated the 2024–25 season. She won 10 World Cup races across three disciplines—five in giant slalom, three in super-G, and two in downhill. She captured the overall title, the discipline globes in downhill and GS, and added a World Championship giant slalom gold and super-G silver.
Then came the fall.
During the Italian Championships, a crash on April 3 ended her season and cast doubt over her chances to race at the 2026 Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo—her home Games.
“It Hurt Deeply—As a Brother and Coach”
Davide Brignone rushed to his sister’s side the day of the crash. He rode in the helicopter, coordinated logistics with Italy’s ski federation, and stayed by her side in the hospital.
“I immediately realized it was a serious injury,” he told AostaNews.it. “We’ve shared so much, we practically live in symbiosis. She was in pain but stayed super calm. I was shocked, but managed to stay calm too.”
As both coach and brother, Davide stepped into a dual role—one he knows well.
“My brother side took over, because that’s who I am first,” he said. “I became a coach because I’m her brother. To earn her trust, a coach has to put himself out there.”
No Regrets About Italian Nationals
Brignone rejected criticism of the decision to race after a long season. Federica may have been tired, he said, but great champions carry responsibilities—and nationals matter.
“I’d do it again 500 times out of 500,” he said. “It’s right that, at certain moments of the season, someone steps up to inspire the next generation. Maybe there was a young girl watching on TV, dreaming of racing with Fede.”
Brignone, who ended his own career early due to injuries, said he empathizes with his sister’s situation.
“She’s practically never stopped,” he said. “Instead of rest, it’s been physiotherapy.”
Not Thinking About a Comeback Yet
Despite media speculation, Brignone made it clear: the focus is on healing, not returning to snow.
“There’s no deadline,” he said. “Her mind needs to process everything. She hasn’t forgotten how to ski. When she’s well, we’ll talk about training. The mood she returns with will matter more than the date.”
Still, Olympic dreams remain alive. He believes that if Federica is healthy and confident—even with limited time on snow—she can still compete at Cortina.
Strength, Spirit, and One More Season?
Brignone admires his sister’s attitude through it all.
“She never got discouraged,” he said. “Whatever she had to do to get better, she did it. She’s proving to herself she can overcome something incredibly tough.”
The injury may have even opened the door to extending her career. While Brignone once thought Federica might retire after Cortina, he now sees the possibility of another year—especially if the recovery reignites her passion.
“She’ll decide when it’s time,” he said. “If she gets to next spring and says, ‘Why stop?’—I’ll support her. But I won’t interfere.”
Source: AostaNews.it – Original interview by David Pellegrino. Translated and adapted for Ski Racing Media.
About the Author: SR Staff Report
