Overview
- The Norwegian Ski Association confirmed that Kilde suffered a ruptured Achilles during preseason downhill training in Chile and that he is travelling to Innsbruck for further examinations.
- Medical decisions including whether he will have surgery and the expected rehabilitation timeline are pending and the association has said it will provide updates.
- The injury comes on the eve of the World Cup season and creates immediate uncertainty about Kilde’s availability for the opening races in Sölden later this month.
- Kilde has been rebuilding since a severe January 2024 crash that required surgeries for calf nerve damage and shoulder ligament tears and complicated, lengthy rehabilitation.
- As a 2020 overall World Cup champion and a Beijing 2022 Olympic medalist, Kilde’s latest setback carries major sporting and personal consequences for his comeback and short-term career prospects.