Finnish freestyle skier Elias Lajunen suffered a serious accident during the Big Air event at the Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina. The 18-year-old athlete lost control during a complex aerial trick and landed hard on his back and head, resulting in a high-impact crash that immediately drew attention from officials and spectators.
Medical personnel rushed to the scene and attended to Lajunen on the slope. He was conscious and responsive after the fall, giving a thumbs-up to reassure those around him, but was transported off the slope for further medical evaluation. The injury prevented him from continuing in the competition, ending his Olympic bid prematurely.
Elias Lajunen Finland Big Air Accident
Lajunen, son of former Olympic champion Samppa Lajunen, had been considered one of Finland’s most promising young freestyle skiers. Despite the frightening crash, early reports indicated that he remained alert and able to move, and he was closely monitored by medical staff to ensure there were no serious complications.
Big Air skiing is one of the most challenging and high-risk disciplines in freestyle skiing, involving large jumps, complex aerial rotations, and hard landings. Even small mistakes can lead to severe falls, making Lajunen’s recovery a priority for both his team and the broader skiing community.
The Finnish Olympic team expressed relief that Lajunen was conscious and responsive, and the focus is now on his recovery. His accident serves as a reminder of the extreme skill, courage, and risk involved in high-level freestyle skiing.
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