Ben Loomis, a member of the United States ski jumping team, experienced a close call during the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics when he was accidentally struck by a leaf blower on the track before a major jump. The incident occurred as Loomis was descending the track for the Nordic combined team sprint event. Workers stationed along the course use leaf blowers to clear excess snow and maintain optimal jumping conditions, but one of them was distracted and did not notice Loomis approaching.

Despite the shock of the collision, Loomis remained focused and was able to complete his jump successfully. He expressed the unusual nature of the incident in an interview, stating how fortunate he was that it happened at the top of the jump, as it allowed him to gather himself and still aim for a good performance. His quick turnaround speaks to his professionalism and ability to handle unexpected challenges in high-pressure situations.

While the event did not result in serious injuries, it raises questions about the safety protocols in place during major sporting events, especially with the presence of vehicles and equipment near athletes. Ensuring that all workers are attentive and aware of the athletes' movements is critical to prevent any potential accidents that could lead to injuries or even career-threatening situations for competitors. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential hazards present in winter sports competitions and the importance of maintaining strict safety standards to protect athletes and enhance their performance at the games.