World skydiving champion Pierre Wolnik dies in Mont Blanc jump accident

Pierre Wolnik, a celebrated French skydiver and two-time world champion, has died following a jump over Mont Blanc after his parachute failed to deploy. He was 37.

The accident happened on Saturday, February 7, during a high-altitude jump above the Mont Blanc massif in the French Alps. According to French media reports, Wolnik had leapt from a helicopter and was expected to deploy his parachute after a brief free-fall.

However, authorities say the parachute did not open. Emergency responders later located him near the village of Les Bossons, where he was pronounced dead at the scene.

French newspaper Le Figaro was among the first outlets to report the incident.

A respected name in competitive skydiving

Wolnik was widely known in the international skydiving community. A member of the French national team, he had been preparing to compete in the upcoming FAI World Championships in 2026.

He earned global recognition after winning the Freefly World Championship in both 2022 and 2024, according to coverage by the New York Post. His precise control, creativity in flight, and calm presence made him a standout in artistic skydiving events.

Beyond competition, Wolnik also worked as a videographer for the Fédération Française de Parachutisme, documenting performances and training sessions. His videos often offered viewers a rare perspective on the discipline and teamwork required in elite skydiving.

Just weeks before the accident, he had shared footage of winter training sessions in a wind tunnel, writing that nothing compared to practicing at home with his team.

Tributes pour in from the skydiving community

In a statement shared on social media, the Fédération Française de Parachutisme expressed deep sorrow over the loss.

Yves-Marie Guillaud, president of the federation, described Wolnik as a talented athlete known for his warm personality and dedication to the sport. He extended condolences to Wolnik’s family, teammates, and the broader French skydiving community.

On Instagram, the federation remembered him as both a champion competitor and a valued teammate whose presence would remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

Wolnik’s death has sent shockwaves through the close-knit world of competitive skydiving. Friends and fellow athletes have described him as passionate, focused, and generous with his time — especially when mentoring younger jumpers.

While the sport demands courage and precision, it also relies heavily on trust, preparation, and teamwork. For many in the community, Wolnik embodied those values.

As tributes continue to arrive from around the world, he is being remembered not only for his titles and achievements, but for the spirit he brought to the skies.

Rest in peace, Pierre Wolnik.