Share and Follow
A frightening incident unfolded during the women’s 1500 meters speedskating quarterfinals, leaving spectators and participants on edge. Polish athlete Kamila Sellier faced a harrowing accident that abruptly halted the competition.
In a dramatic turn of events during the sixth quarterfinal heat, Sellier suffered a severe cut under her left eye. The injury occurred when the skate of her competitor, American Kristen Santos-Griswold, inadvertently caught her face, resulting in a distressing and bloodied scene.
This unfortunate mishap caused a delay in the race, as officials paused the event with 13 laps remaining. Medics swiftly arrived at the scene to provide necessary medical attention to Sellier, while attendants worked diligently to clean the ice, ensuring the safety of all skaters.
Despite the alarming circumstances, there was a moment of relief. According to NBC’s coverage, Sellier offered a reassuring thumbs-up gesture as she was carried away on a stretcher, signaling to the crowd and viewers that she was in stable condition.
Per the NBC broadcast, Sellier game a thumbs-up as she left the ice on a stretcher.
2026 WINTER OLYMPICS
Neither Sellier nor Santos-Grisworld returned to finish the race, with both listed as receiving penalties.