Austrian Bobsledder Jakob Mandlbauer Hospitalized After Winter Olympics Crash
Milano Cortina, Italy – February 21, 2026 – Austrian bobsled driver Jakob Mandlbauer was stretchered off the ice and transported to the hospital following a crash during the second run of the four-man bobsleigh competition at the Winter Olympics. The incident caused a significant delay in the event.
What Happened?
The Austrian team, comprised of Jakob Mandlbauer, Daniel Bertschler, Sebastian Mitterer, and Daiyehan Nichols-Bardi, crashed on Curve 7, tipping over onto its side. Despite the crash, the sled continued to slide for a considerable distance before coming to a halt. Medical personnel attended to the athletes at the scene.
Mandlbauer’s Condition
While Bertschler, Mitterer, and Nichols-Bardi were able to walk away after medical checks, Mandlbauer required assistance and was carried off on a stretcher. Austrian team officials confirmed that Mandlbauer was taken to the hospital as a precautionary measure, but initial reports indicate he sustained no serious injuries. Christoph Iglhauser, Austrian team press member, told The Athletic, “Jakob is on his way to hospital… He’s not so bad. It’s just a check. Everyone else is fine. No injury, only a check. He’ll be fine.”
Previous Incident
This crash wasn’t the first for the Austrian team during this event. They also experienced a crash during unofficial training prior to the start of the competition.
Event Delay
The crash caused an extended delay in the four-man bobsleigh final, lasting over 15 minutes while medical staff stabilized Mandlbauer and cleared the track, according to Express.co.uk. The sled reached a speed of 117 kilometers per hour before the incident.
Mandlbauer’s Reported Pain
TNT Sports commentary reported that Mandlbauer was complaining of neck and back pain prior to being transported to the hospital, as noted in Express.co.uk.
Ongoing Coverage
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games continue through February 22nd, with coverage available on discovery+ via Prime Video.