Margot Simond, a young 18-year-old hopeful of French alpine skiing, tragically passed away on Thursday, April 24, 2025, during a training session in Val-d’Isère. This training was part of the prestigious sporting event Red Bull Alpine Park. It combined the techniques of classic slalom and the spectacular tricks of freestyle skiing. As she raced down the demanding slope of the famous Savoyard resort, the young skier suffered a violent fall. Despite the immediate intervention of the rescue team on site, Margot Simond could not be revived.
The Albertville prosecutor’s office immediately opened an investigation to determine the precise causes of this tragic accident. The ongoing investigations focus particularly on the weather conditions, the state of the course, and the safety standards observed. This dramatic event has sparked strong emotions in the sports community and beyond.
An exceptional talent prematurely broken
Originally from the Chambéry area, Margot Simond started skiing at a very young age on the family slopes of Aillons-Margériaz, in the heart of the Bauges in Savoie. Her early talent quickly propelled her into the prestigious Saisies club. She had been perfecting her craft there for four years, guided by renowned coaches. Crowned junior French slalom champion in March 2025 at Les Ménuires, she confirmed her immense potential in the eyes of French alpine skiing.
In February 2025, she represented France at the prestigious European Youth Olympic Festival, held in Bakuriani, Georgia. This competition marked an important step in her international journey. Her bold style, extraordinary determination, and technical sense were remarkable. This promised to make her one of the great figures of French skiing.
The alpine skiing world shaken
The French Ski Federation (FFS) paid a moving tribute to this "promising young competitor, gone far too soon." Meanwhile, the Savoie Ski Committee and the Saisies club expressed their deep sadness. Additionally, they affirmed their solidarity and support for the bereaved family.
Among the skiing personalities deeply affected by the passing of Margot Simond is Clément Noël, Olympic slalom champion and creator of the Red Bull Alpine Park. On Instagram, he spoke of an "immense pain" and a "tragic loss for the entire sports community." As a sign of respect, the event scheduled for the following weekend was immediately canceled.
Red Bull Alpine Park: a spectacular technical challenge
Designed by Clément Noël, the Red Bull Alpine Park offers a unique and particularly demanding competition format. The course, located on the legendary Bellevarde domain in Val-d’Isère, features an impressive start at 6 meters high, complex obstacles suspended in the air, and a spectacular final jump of 10 meters leading to a narrow tunnel.
Inspired by kayak cross, this innovative event brings together both the best international athletes and promising young talents like Margot Simond. For her, this competition represented a unique opportunity to compete against the elite of world alpine skiing.
Unanimous tributes on social media
The passing of Margot Simond triggered a wave of emotion on TikTok, Instagram, and X. The hashtags #JusticeForMargot and #MargotForever reflect the shock felt and the deep attachment of those who knew or admired her.
Online messages speak of a young woman "radiant, generous, passionate, and full of ambition." Through these numerous tributes, the image of a talented athlete emerges. Additionally, a deeply human personality appears.
An eternal memory for a youth cut short
The premature passing of Margot Simond painfully reminds us of the inherent risks of high-level sports. While the investigation continues to seek precise answers, her memory will remain indelible in the history of French skiing.
Her name will be associated not only with a heartbreaking tragedy but also with the exceptional promise she embodied. Thus, Margot Simond will remain eternally alive in the hearts of those who crossed her path and admired her exemplary journey.