Crowds Gather for Lindsey Vonn's Final Olympic Downhill

Fans from around the world show up early to support the American skiing legend at the Tofane Alpine Skiing Center in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Thousands of spectators, including Vonn's family and friends, arrived at the Tofane Alpine Skiing Center in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, on Sunday morning to watch Lindsey Vonn compete in her final Olympic downhill race. The crowd was filled with people from around the world, many wearing American gear and waving flags to show their support for the American skiing legend.

Why it matters

Vonn's final Olympic appearance has drawn significant interest, as she is considered one of the greatest alpine skiers of all time. Her fans are eager to witness her last run on the Olympic stage, where she has found great success over the years, especially at the Tofane course.

The details

Despite the early hour, the venue was already buzzing with activity by 9 a.m. local time. Spectators from the U.S. and around the world, including Vonn's family and friends, had arrived hours early to claim their spots near the finish line. The crowd included a mix of casual fans and die-hard winter sports enthusiasts, all eager to see Vonn compete one last time at the Olympics.

  • The women's Olympic downhill race was held on Sunday, February 9, 2026.
  • Spectators began arriving at the Tofane Alpine Skiing Center as early as 9 a.m. local time.

The players

Lindsey Vonn

An American alpine skier and one of the greatest of all time, competing in her final Olympic downhill race.

Lisa Krohn

Lindsey Vonn's maternal aunt, who traveled from Edina, Minnesota, to watch the race.

Alan Kildow

Lindsey Vonn's father, who expressed confidence in his daughter's ability to perform well on the Tofane course.

Laura Kildow

Lindsey Vonn's sister, who has attended multiple Olympic Games to support her.

Vanessa Cella

Lindsey Vonn's best friend from Park City, Utah, who attended the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics to support Vonn.

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What they’re saying

“We're looking out for Lindsey Vonn here today. And Breezy Johnson, too.”

— Stefan Bledig

“I feel so confident. I just know she can do it. And even with a bum knee, she can do it. She's just amazing.”

— Lisa Krohn, Lindsey Vonn's maternal aunt

“She is ready for this. The last few days, she's been preparing. It was stressful coming through the injury, but I think she's ready, and I'm confident.”

— Alan Kildow, Lindsey Vonn's father

“Watching her race, it's amazing. It's inspiring, nerve-wracking, it's exciting.”

— Laura Kildow, Lindsey Vonn's sister

“We're not hoping for anything. We know. We're here for the big event.”

— Vanessa Cella, Lindsey Vonn's best friend from Park City

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.