Federica Brignone undergoes left-leg surgery Milano Cortina 2026; plate and screws removed, PT to start soon

Alpine skiing: Federica Brignone undergoes surgery on left leg, six months after Olympic heroics at Milano Cortina 2026

Earlier this year, Brignone told Olympics.com that the upcoming season could be her last depending on her physical condition after the break.

Federica Brignone underwent surgery on her left leg on Tuesday (25 August).

The Italian Alpine skier , who six months ago won two gold medals at her home Olympic Winter Games, has been struggling with discomfort since the build-up to Milano Cortina 2026 .

With the issues persisting and just two months out from the new FIS Ski World Cup season, the 36-year-old has decided to have a procedure to address the pain.

“As my leg continues to improve, I am unfortunately still experiencing pain when doing certain activities and whilst skiing,” Brignone said in a statement . “For this reason, after discussing it with the medical team, we have decided to go ahead with surgery.

“The main aim will be to remove the plate and clean up the area, with the possibility of also treating the meniscus. This final decision will be made during this afternoon’s operation. That’s all for now… I’ll keep you updated.”

Surgeon Andrea Panzeri (President of the FISI Medical Commission) reassured everyone about the positive outcome of the procedure via a FISI press release: “The knee arthroscopy confirmed what we expected. The plate and screws were removed, and no other type of intervention was necessary. Federica will begin physical therapy immediately and will be able to resume physical activity within a few weeks.”

Federica Brignone exclusive on her future: “If I show up, it will probably be my last season”

Federica Brignone (ITA) | Athlete Highlights | Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026

Federica Brignone went from a double broken leg to a double Olympic champion in less than a year. Brignone defied the odds just to make it to the starting gate at Milano Cortina 2026; to win gold in the women’s super-g and women’s giant slalom in front of her home fans was more than even she could have imagined.

Brignone was already a three-time Olympic medallist and two-time world champion before Milano Cortina. But after breaking her leg at the Italian national championships in April 2025, her home Games were in serious jeopardy.

The Milanese skier recovered in time to clinch two Olympic gold medals in the women’s giant slalom and super-G events at the Tofane Alpine Skiing Centre.

“Yes, it would probably be my last season,” she said in April 2026. “If I show up at the gate, I would like to go back to doing all the disciplines.

“But this is also a big question mark because a season of 30 or 10 races is a bit different. It all depends on my leg. If I do a last dance or not depends on my health and my desire and motivation.”

The 2026-27 season begins in Sölden, Austria, on 24 October, with the giant slalom race, while the Alpine World Ski Championships head to Crans Montana, Switzerland, from 1-14 February 2027.

Federica Brignone relives ‘unthinkable’ journey to Olympic super-G gold at 2026 Winter Olympics

The “Tiger” was celebrated at Casa Italia in Cortina just hours after winning an emotional gold, following 10 months of recovery from injury. “I feel proud. The fact I’m still able to be here with a medal was something unimaginable,” Brignone said.