The world of extreme sports is mourning the sudden death of Pierre Wolnik, a decorated wingsuit skydiver who died on Saturday, Feb. 7, after his parachute failed to open during a high-altitude jump in the French Alps.
Wolnik, 37, was performing a wingsuit freefall over the Mont Blanc massif when the jump turned fatal, according to French outlets including Le Figaro and TF1 Info. The two-time French freefly world champion reportedly leaped from a helicopter, but for reasons not yet known, his parachute never deployed as he neared the ground.
His body was discovered in the village of Les Bossons in the Chamonix valley, where emergency crews pronounced him dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed an investigation is underway.
Wolnik was considered one of the sport’s brightest talents and was set to represent France in the 2026 FAI World Championships. Beyond competition, he worked as a videographer for the Fédération Française de Parachutisme, sharing dramatic aerial footage and behind-the-scenes moments with followers on social media.
The organization remembered him as a teammate whose impact would “forever be etched in the memories of those around him.” FFP President Yves-Marie Guillaud also paid tribute, calling Wolnik a gifted athlete with a “friendly smile” who inspired the parachuting community.
Wolnik often posted clips of his jumps, including a video last November where he wrote, “Flying high, feeling free. Because up there, everything makes sense.”
His death comes as fans and fellow skydivers continue to share memories and messages of grief for an athlete known for pushing limits while capturing the beauty of flight.
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