Industry News
French ski racer Cyprien Sarrazin is facing a long road to recovery following a terrifying crash during a Downhill training session at Bormio, Italy, on December 27, 2024. Sarrazin, 30, suffered a violent fall on the Stelvio slope, a notoriously challenging downhill course in Bormio. The accident occurred after he launched off a jump in the lower section of the course. Leading the training run by more than half a second, Sarrazin came off the jump at an angle, spinning sideways before landing heavily and sliding into the safety nets. The crash left him motionless on the slope, and he was airlifted to a nearby hospital for urgent medical care.
Doctors quickly diagnosed Sarrazin with a subdural hematoma, a serious condition where blood collects between the brain and its outermost membrane, typically caused by head trauma. The French Alpine ski team’s doctor, Dr. Stéphane Bulle, explained in a press release today, January 2, that the skier underwent emergency surgery the same day to remove the hematoma. Sarrazin’s post-op condition was stable and the athlete was subsequently moved from the intensive care unit (ICU) to a standard care ward. Despite the severity of the crash, an MRI performed on December 31 revealed no additional injuries beyond a painful foot and knee, which Dr. Bulle described as “reassuring” given the severity of the impact.
According to the press release by the French Ski Association (FFS), Sarrazin is expected to be repatriated to France tomorrow, January 3, and will continue his recovery in the neurosurgery department of the Médipôle de Lyon. However, the timeline for his rehabilitation remains uncertain. Recovering from a subdural hematoma can take weeks or months, and experts suggest the skier is unlikely to return to the World Cup circuit this season. His rehabilitation could involve occupational or speech therapy to address any potential neurological impairments.
Sarrazin’s crash came just a day after he dominated the first training session, leading by more than a second ahead of Italy’s Mattia Casse. The 2023 Bormio winner was a strong contender for another victory on the Stelvio slope, one of the most physically demanding race courses on the World Cup calendar. Known for its steep pitches and unforgiving terrain, the Stelvio has tested even the most experienced skiers.
The French Ski Association shared updates on X (Twitter), assuring fans that Sarrazin was conscious following his surgery and in stable condition. The crash is a stark reminder of the risks faced by downhill racers, who regularly reach speeds of up to 80 mph on icy, technical slopes. As Sarrazin begins his recovery journey, the skiing community rallies around him, sending messages of support and encouragement.
Sarrazin’s accident underscores the resilience required of elite athletes and the fine line they tread as they ski right at the edge of their ability—and sometimes beyond. While Sarrazin’s future on the World Cup circuit remains uncertain, his recovery is the immediate priority for his team and supporters.
