Milan Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – Polish short track speed skater Kamila Sellier underwent surgery after a frightening collision during the 1500-meter quarterfinal at the Olympic Games on Friday, February 21, 2026. Sellier sustained a deep laceration below her eye when she was struck by the skate of American Kristen Santos-Griswold during a fall.
The incident occurred during the sixth quarterfinal heat, and Sellier briefly lost consciousness after the impact. Medical personnel quickly attended to the 25-year-old athlete, and she was transported off the ice on a stretcher, giving a thumbs-up to the crowd as she left the arena.
Team officials provided an update following the race, confirming that Sellier had been operated on. While details of the surgery were not immediately released, initial tests were reportedly positive, according to Eurosport.
The crash sparked widespread concern on social media, with many users expressing shock at the severity of the injury. Comments focused on the proximity of the skate to Sellier’s eye, with some fearing potential long-term vision impairment, as reported by Social Nieuws.
Santos-Griswold received a penalty for her role in the incident. The race was subsequently re-run after the initial stoppage.
Sellier later shared an update on her condition via Instagram, posting a message stating, “One day this photo will remind me that I am stronger than I think.” This sentiment was echoed in reports from Sport Nieuws and HLN.
The incident highlights the inherent dangers of short track speed skating, a sport known for its close-quarters racing and potential for collisions. The Olympic Games continue with competition in other short track events, but the focus remains on Sellier’s recovery.
