French Skier Cyprien Sarrazin Reflects on Near-Fatal Crash and Uncertain Future in Racing

After a severe head injury in December, Sarrazin is recovering well but remains undecided about returning to competitive skiing.

Cyprien Sarrazin, 30, suffered a life-threatening crash during a World Cup downhill event in Bormio, Italy, in December 2024, leading to surgery for a brain bleed and other injuries.
The skier has no memory of the crash or the five days following his operation, which he credits with helping him avoid post-traumatic stress.
Sarrazin is making faster-than-expected progress in his recovery, though he continues to experience double vision and is undergoing rehabilitation in Gap, France.
Despite still feeling driven by elite sport, Sarrazin has not decided whether he will return to competitive skiing, saying he is taking his recovery step by step.
The crash occurred at a venue set to host the men’s alpine skiing events at the 2026 Winter Olympics, highlighting the risks of the sport.