Norwegian skier Aleksander Aamodt Kilde’s season has come to an unfortunate end after sustaining shoulder and leg injuries in a crash during a World Cup downhill race in Wengen, Switzerland. The incident resulted in a dislocated shoulder and a cut in his calf, requiring surgery in Bern. However, Kilde was fortunate to escape without any fractures and is currently receiving care at the hospital.
A social media post from Kilde showed him in good spirits, expressing gratitude for the support and love he has received. Despite the challenges of the sport, he remains committed and passionate.
Kilde, known as the world’s top downhiller in previous seasons, fell near the finish line and was attended to by support personnel. Following the incident, a helicopter transported him to a nearby hospital for further treatment, causing a temporary halt in the race.
The crash occurred just a day after French skier Alexis Pinturault suffered a season-ending ACL tear in a super-G race at Wengen. These incidents have prompted discussions about the scheduling of consecutive speed races in the future.
Kilde, who had six World Cup podiums this season, has faced significant challenges, including dealing with the flu earlier in the week. His absence will be keenly felt in the skiing community, especially after his successes in the previous season, including eight victories and silver medals at the world championships.
In light of these developments, there are calls for greater consideration in the scheduling of races to ensure the safety and well-being of competitors. These incidents serve as a reminder of the physical demands and risks associated with alpine skiing.
Historically, Wengen has been a renowned location for speed races, with a rich tradition of hosting top-level skiing competitions. The recent crashes have sparked conversations about athlete safety and the future of speed races at the venue.
As the skiing community reflects on these events, the focus remains on the well-being of Kilde, Pinturault, and all athletes as they recover and look towards the future.
