A devastating moment unfolded on the Olympic ice as Afghanistan’s bobsleigh team saw their historic run come to a sudden end after crashing on turn eight and failing to qualify for the final.

The team, made up of young and inexperienced athletes competing on one of the world’s most demanding tracks, lost control of their sled midway through the run. As the bobsleigh exited the high-speed curve, it tipped and slid across the ice, bringing their qualification attempt to an abrupt stop.

Officials confirmed that none of the athletes were seriously injured, but the crash ruled the team out of contention and ended what had already been a groundbreaking appearance for Afghanistan in winter sport.

For many viewers, the moment was especially emotional. Afghanistan remains one of the least represented nations at the Winter Olympics, and the team’s presence alone was widely seen as a powerful symbol of determination, resilience and opportunity against enormous logistical and sporting challenges.

In the seconds before the accident, the crew had been building momentum, navigating the early sections of the track with growing confidence. Turn eight, however, proved unforgiving. The sharp transition and high centrifugal forces are known to be one of the most technically difficult points on the course, even for elite and highly experienced teams.

Coaches and officials later praised the athletes for their courage and discipline, noting that simply reaching the Olympic stage required years of training under limited resources and access to facilities.

Although the final result was not what the team had hoped for, their participation has already been described by supporters as a milestone for Afghan sport and an important step toward broader representation in winter competitions.

As the athletes left the track area, visibly disappointed but supported by staff and fellow competitors, many spectators rose to applaud — acknowledging not just the race that ended on turn eight, but the long and difficult journey that brought the team to the Olympic ice in the first place.