Shiffrin’s Race Prep Amidst Kilde’s Injury: Updates on Flachau Night Slalom and Recovery

Kilde and Shiffrin under better circumstances GEPA pictures/Harald Steiner

Mikaela Shiffrin is gearing up for the Flachau Austria Night Slalom on Tuesday, January 16th. However, her focus isn’t solely on the race; it’s also on her boyfriend, Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, a world-class skier who recently faced a challenging downhill crash at the Lauberhorn in Wengen, Switzerland.

Shiffrin expressed her concern and relief regarding her boyfriend’s injury, stating, “I am feeling okay. I’m just maybe a little bit frazzled from the last 48 hours, but I feel personally much better just knowing that Aleks will eventually be okay.” She acknowledged the shock the world experienced witnessing the incident on television but assured that, health-wise, she’s doing okay.

Her boyfriend, Kilde, faced a tough race after not feeling well and participating in two days of racing before the longest downhill of the season. Unfortunately, his illness and schedule seemed to reduce his strength, leading to a crash and a helicopter evacuation from the race finish to Bern, Switzerland.

Providing insight into Kilde’s condition after visiting him in Switzerland, Shiffrin said, “He seriously showed his strength, really how strong he is and how much he works to be strong, not to have more injuries than what he already has.” While there is no bone fracture, Aleksander sustained significant injuries, including a massive cut and a shoulder dislocation, requiring a three-hour surgery for the leg alone.

The recovery ahead is uncertain, and Shiffrin emphasized, “It’s too soon to pinpoint how much time, but it will take time.” Despite the challenges, Shiffrin expressed gratitude for the support and love they’ve received. Kilde and his family are taking the time to process everything and determine the next steps.

Shiffrin appreciates the incredible medical team supporting Kilde, including doctors, surgeons, nurses, and Henrik, his physio. The couple is thankful for the overwhelming messages of well wishes and support from people worldwide. Shiffrin assured that Kilde would do his best to keep everyone updated on his progress as he navigates this challenging recovery journey.

Click on images to enlarge