Lindsey Vonn crashed early in the Olympic downhill and was airlifted after hooking a gate; punters should avoid backing Vonn for a medal as markets will likely shift toward teammates like Breezy Johnson or other healthy contenders in downhill markets.
Lindsey Vonn's Olympic downhill ends in dramatic crash
Lindsey Vonn, 41, crashed just 10 seconds into the Olympic downhill on Cortina d’Ampezzo’s Olimpia delle Tofane course. Racing for a fourth Olympic medal only nine days after tearing her ACL, Vonn hooked her right arm on a gate at high speed, was thrown from her line and came to a stop after sliding for several seconds. Medical personnel arrived immediately and she was transported from the venue by helicopter.
What happened on the course
Vonn started 13th and was chasing teammate Breezy Johnson, who had posted the top time. On an early right-hand bend she took an overly direct line, was lifted off her skis and crashed violently. Race officials halted the competition as medics attended to her on the slope and the crowd watched in stunned silence.
Context and injury concerns
The crash is especially alarming given Vonn’s recent ACL tear nine days earlier, yet she had returned to compete and entered the event among the pre-race favorites after winning two of the first six World Cup downhills this season. She was one of four Americans in the field alongside Breezy Johnson, Jacqueline Wiles and Isabella Wright.
Betting implications and market impact
Books are likely to shorten odds on other top contenders and teammates, particularly Breezy Johnson, as markets adapt to Vonn’s withdrawal or compromised status.
Punters should avoid backing Vonn for a podium or medal given the severity and timing of the crash; consider reallocating stakes to healthy favorites or waiting for medical updates before placing new bets.
Expect volatility in in-play and futures markets until official medical information is released.
People are only just realising what the Olympic rings and their colours actually mean
The American star had to be lifted from the course by helicopter.
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