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French champion skydiver, 37, dies after parachute fails to open during freefall jump over mountain
His wingsuit failed to open after he leapt off a helicopter.
February 14, 2026, 08:47 AM
A French world champion skydiver has died in a parachute accident, free-falling over Europe's highest peak, the Mont Blanc massif in the French Alps, on Feb. 8.
According to Le Figaro, first responders found 37-year-old Pierre Wolnik's body in the rocky terrain in the village of Les Bossons, Chamonix Valley, France.
His wingsuit failed to open after he leapt off a helicopter, reported The New York Post.
Wolnik, who was pronounced dead at the scene, was a two-time freefly world champion, claiming his titles in 2022 and 2024.
Yves-Marie Guillaud, president of the Fédération Française de Parachutisme, took to Facebook to express his condolences on Feb. 8.
"The entire sport skydiving community mourns the loss of a talented young man with such a warm smile."
Set to represent France at 2026 championship
He was set to represent France at the 2026 World Air Sports Federal Championships.
Wolnik also worked as a videographer and documented his aerial stunts on his social media.
The Fédération Française de Parachutisme (FFP) said in a Feb. 9 Facebook post that Wolnik was “remembered as a teammate whose presence will forever be etched in the memories of those around him”.
An investigation into his death is ongoing.
Top photo from Pierre Wolnik & Fédération Française de Parachutisme/Facebook
