Livigno, Italy – Flora Tabanelli has etched her name into the history books, securing a bronze medal in the Freestyle Big Air event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on Saturday, February 16, 2026. The 18-year-traditional Italian skier delivered a stunning performance, overcoming a significant injury to reach the podium.
Tabanelli’s achievement is particularly remarkable given that she competed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) sustained in November during training in Austria. Facing a difficult decision, she opted for conservative therapy rather than surgery, determined to compete at the home Games. Her resilience and determination paid off as she finished behind Canada’s Megan Oldham and China’s Eileen Gu.
The young Italian is no stranger to success, entering the Olympics as the reigning world champion in Big Air, holding the crystal globe for the overall and Big Air specialties, and as the youth Olympic champion from Gangwon 2024. This Olympic bronze adds another prestigious accolade to her growing list of accomplishments.
“It’s a fairytale after the one of Federica Brignone,” sources reported, referencing the parallels between Tabanelli’s journey and that of fellow Italian Olympian Brignone. Both athletes have utilized the J-Medical facility as part of their rehabilitation.
Tabanelli’s medal marks a historic moment for Italy, representing the nation’s first-ever Olympic medal in freestyle skiing. Despite Italy traditionally being a smaller presence in the sport, Tabanelli’s performance signals a potential turning point for the country’s freestyle program. The win is a testament to her skill, courage, and unwavering spirit, solidifying her status as a rising star in the world of freestyle skiing.
The competition saw Tabanelli navigate a challenging field of experienced athletes, showcasing her technical prowess and daring maneuvers on the massive ramp at Livigno Snow Park. Her bronze medal performance is a source of national pride and inspiration for aspiring athletes across Italy.
