High-Speed Bobsleigh Crashes Mar Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Games
London, 21 February 2026 – The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics has seen a series of high-velocity incidents on the ice, highlighting the extreme physical risks inherent in bobsleigh racing. As athletes reach speeds exceeding 130 kph, the margin for error remains razor-thin, leading to several significant crashes during both training and competition heats this week.
Recent Incidents on the Cortina Track
In the most recent action, Austrian driver Jakob Mandlbauer remained on the ice following a worrying crash during a competitive heat. Medical teams attended the scene immediately, and Mandlbauer is expected to undergo strict concussion protocols. This follows a “bash ’em crash ’em” run by the United States duo Del Duca and Williamson, who managed to maintain their position at the top of the standings despite significant contact with the track walls.
Additionally, American gold medallist Elana Meyers Taylor and teammate Jadin O’Brien successfully overcame a crash during their campaign. The pair, who recently secured a fifth-place finish in the first heat of the women’s bobsled, have spoken openly about the mental fortitude required to return to the sled after such high-impact events.
The Science of the Slide: Why Crashes Occur
Bobsleigh physics involve a complex balance of maximizing acceleration while managing immense gravitational forces. When a sled enters a turn at approximately 80 mph (129 kph), the crew experiences accelerations up to five times that of normal gravity (5G). At these forces, any minor steering error or loss of friction can result in the sled overturning.
Medical experts at the 2026 Games have highlighted “Sled Head”—a form of chronic sub-concussive brain injury caused by the constant vibration and impact against the sled’s interior—as a primary concern. A new safety feature has been introduced this year designed to prevent direct impact on occupants, though it does not require a total redesign of the traditional sledge.
Key Facts: Bobsleigh Safety and Physics
The following table outlines the technical and safety parameters governing the sport during the 2026 Olympic cycle.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Top Average Speed | 130–150 kph |
| Peak G-Force | 5G (Five times Earth’s gravity) |
| Common Injuries | Concussion (“Sled Head”), ligament tears, and friction burns |
| Safety Innovations | Direct impact prevention systems (Milano-Cortina 2026) |
| Track Diameter | Approximately 3.8 metres |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Sled Head”?
“Sled Head” is a term used by athletes to describe the headaches and cognitive fatigue resulting from the intense vibrations and repeated small head impacts against the bobsleigh’s cowling during a high-speed run.
How fast do Olympic bobsleighs travel?
While 150 kph is common in elite competition, the world record stands at 201 kph. At the Milano-Cortina 2026 Games, most teams are averaging between 125 and 135 kph depending on track conditions.
Are there seatbelts in a bobsleigh?
No. As noted by Team GB athletes, the sled contains no cushions, seatbelts, or airbags. Occupants rely entirely on their helmets, suits, and the structural integrity of the sled’s hull for protection during a crash.