Simone Biles almost had a major red carpet mishap at the 2026 Laureus World Sports Awards, but luckily, she was able to turn her backstage emergency into a style gold medal.
The 29-year-old gymnastics legend revealed she was nearly sidelined by a wardrobe malfunction before stepping onto the carpet in Madrid, Spain. She took to social media to share a candid behind-the-scenes moment showing her close call. “What you don’t see,” Biles said. “Getting sewn into my dress because it busted.”
© Europa Press via Getty ImagesStyled by Marc Desir, Biles looked regal in a sculptural one-shoulder gold minidress by Vietnamese designer Cong Tri. The metallic piece featured dramatic feather detailing and a soft asymmetric train.
The piece was such a red carpet standout that few would have guessed the dress needed emergency repairs moments before she posed for photographers.
She paired the statement dress with a luxe lineup of accessories, including a gold-and-green Audemars Piguet watch, pointed nude Manolo Blahnik heels, and a sleek gold clutch. Her beauty look featured a chic updo, face-framing tendrils, diamond earrings from Alexis Bittar, a delicate anklet, a hand chain, and a classic French manicure.
© Europa Press via Getty Images“Basically the Oscars... but make it sports🤏🏾🤍,” she wrote on Instagram while sharing photos from the event. “First @laureussport World Sports Awards as an ambassador and I’m feeling inspired by every story in the room✨.”
The moment also marked Biles’ first Laureus Awards appearance since becoming an official ambassador for Laureus in February.
© Getty Images for LaureusHer partnership with the organization has a deeper mission beyond medals. “Laureus has played a meaningful role in my journey for many years,” Biles said in a statement. “Today, I am just as proud to be joining Laureus as an Ambassador. I am honoured to help support Laureus as I share the big idea at the heart of everything Laureus does: that sport has the power to change the world.”
She continued by emphasizing why the cause matters to her. “I’ve seen that power in action—how sport can open doors, build confidence and help young people feel seen and supported,” Biles said. “I am inspired by Laureus’s focus on the particular needs of girls and young women.”
© Getty ImagesWhile the fashion near-disaster could have stolen headlines, Simone Biles continues to deliver excellence whether she is competing on the mat, speaking out for athletes, or commanding a red carpet.
