Italy's Delago Wins First World Cup, Vonn Takes 3rd at 41

At 41 years old, most athletes have long retired, but Lindsey Vonn just earned her fifth podium finish in five downhills this season, taking third place in Tarvisio, Italy on Saturday.

The real star of the day was Italy's Nicol Delago, who finally broke through for her first World Cup victory after years of close calls. Racing on home snow with the Milan Cortina Winter Games just three weeks away, Delago finished 0.26 seconds ahead of Vonn despite nearly losing control in a foggy section where her skis split apart.

"It certainly hasn't always been easy over the years, so today is huge," Delago said after kissing her ski in celebration. Her win came just one day after watching teammate Giovanni Franzoni claim his first victory in Switzerland, providing extra motivation.

The victory was especially sweet for the Delago family. Nicol's younger sister Nadia won bronze in downhill at the 2022 Beijing Olympics and finished 10th on Saturday, continuing their tradition of supporting each other through wins and setbacks.

Vonn blazed through the course at 84.7 mph, the fastest speed of the day, but veered into fresh snow midway down that cost her precious time. Still, she extended her lead in the downhill standings to 144 points and moved up to third in the overall World Cup rankings.

Why This Inspires

This race captured everything beautiful about sports: breakthrough moments and second acts. Delago finally achieved her first victory after multiple second and third place finishes, proving persistence pays off. Meanwhile, Vonn continues defying expectations about what's possible after 40, inspiring athletes of all ages to keep chasing their dreams.

The timing couldn't be better for Italy's ski team, which is gaining momentum heading into their home Olympics in February. The energy and confidence from these victories will carry them into Cortina d'Ampezzo, where the women's races begin February 8.

Success looks different for everyone, whether it's claiming your first win or proving you've still got it decades into your career.