Austrian Bobsledder Hospitalized Following Dramatic Winter Olympics Crash
Austrian bobsleigh star Jakob Mandlbauer was carried away on a stretcher after a frightening crash during the Winter Olympics competition, though officials confirmed he sustained no serious injuries. The incident occurred on Curve 7 of the track, causing significant concern among spectators and officials alike.
Team Sled Tips Over on Dangerous Curve
The Austrian four-man team, consisting of Jakob Mandlbauer, Daniel Bertschler, Sebastian Mitterer, and Daiyehan Nichols-Bardi, experienced a dramatic tip-over during their run. Despite the sled rolling onto its side, it continued sliding down the track for an extended distance, nearly reaching the finish line before coming to a complete stop.
Medical personnel immediately rushed to attend to the athletes, causing a substantial delay in the competition. While Bertschler, Mitterer, and Nichols-Bardi were able to stand and leave the scene after initial medical checks, Mandlbauer required stretcher assistance due to precautionary measures.
Official Statement Confirms Precautionary Hospital Visit
Austrian team press member Christoph Iglhauser provided reassurance about Mandlbauer's condition, stating, '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.'
This crash marked the second incident for the Austrian team during these Games, as they had previously crashed during unofficial training sessions before the official competition began. The team, one of two representing Austria, had been positioned 21st after their first run but faced disqualification following this crash for failing to cross the finish line with their sled.
Second Crash Occurs Within Hours
In a concerning development, another crash occurred just one hour later when the French team lost control during their second run. Fortunately, all four French athletes emerged quickly from their sled and appeared unharmed as they walked back to their team area.
The Olympic bobsleigh competition has faced multiple safety concerns this year, with these incidents following other high-profile accidents during the Winter Games. The Austrian team's disqualification adds to the dramatic narrative of this year's bobsleigh events, highlighting the extreme risks athletes face in this high-speed winter sport.
