The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics are proving to be a rollercoaster of emotions for Canadian athletes, marked by moments of triumph and setbacks. On February 14, key performances highlighted the resilience and determination of Canada’s competitors, while off the ice, controversies continue to stir. Here are the standout moments from the day.
Dubreuil Claims Bronze in Speed Skating Redemption
Laurent Dubreuil, a prominent figure in Canadian speed skating, experienced a remarkable turnaround after narrowly missing the podium at the 2022 Beijing Games. On Saturday, the Levis, Quebec native skated to a bronze medal in the men’s 500-metre event, clocking in an impressive time of 34.26 seconds. This initial Olympic record was briefly held until American racer Jordan Stolz and the Netherlands’ Jenning de Boo surpassed it in subsequent pairings. Yet, Dubreuil’s speed proved formidable, securing him a place on the podium despite the fierce competition.
Dubreuil’s performance is a testament to his skill and perseverance, especially considering the heartbreak he faced in Beijing. “It’s been a long journey,” he stated, visibly emotional after the race. “To finally stand on the podium feels incredible.”
Dandjinou’s Disappointment in Short Track
In stark contrast, William Dandjinou, the world’s top-ranked short-track speed skater, is grappling with the weight of expectations after a challenging start to the Games. The Montreal athlete, a favourite for gold, finished fifth in the men’s 1,500-metre final, hampered by a collision with a South Korean skater that disrupted his momentum in the final laps. Despite this setback, Dandjinou did secure a silver in the mixed team event, providing a glimmer of hope as he now turns his focus to the 500-metre race scheduled for next week.
“I know I have the potential to medal,” Dandjinou expressed. “It’s about regrouping and coming back stronger.”
Poulin’s Impactful Return to Women’s Hockey
The Canadian women’s hockey team received a significant boost with the return of captain Marie-Philip Poulin, who missed two games due to injury. Her presence was felt immediately as she led the team to a commanding 5-1 victory over Germany in the quarter-finals. Poulin not only contributed to the scoreline but also netted a power-play goal, bringing her Olympic tally to 18, tying her with Hayley Wickenheiser for the all-time record.
Her performance underscores her importance to the team, as she continues to score in five consecutive Olympic tournaments. “It’s incredible to be back and contribute to the team’s success,” Poulin remarked after the game.
Curling Controversies Continue to Fester
Off the ice, the Canadian men’s curling team is embroiled in a controversy that has not subsided. Following accusations from Sweden regarding a potential breach of rules by Marc Kennedy during a match, tensions rose again when the Swiss team alerted officials about similar infractions. These incidents have led to increased scrutiny and a warning from World Curling for the Canadian squad. The situation culminated in a disappointing 9-5 defeat to Switzerland, leaving Canada with a record of 3-1.
Kennedy, visibly frustrated, responded to the accusations with a fiery rebuttal, highlighting the intensity of competition on the ice. “We’re here to compete, and it’s disappointing to have distractions like this,” he noted.
Samba Celebrations and Historic Wins
In a surprising twist, Brazil’s Lucas Pinheiro Braathen made history by winning gold in the giant slalom, marking a significant milestone for South America at the Winter Olympics. This victory not only brings Brazil its first-ever gold in Winter Games history but also places them ahead of Canada in the medal count—an unexpected twist for the traditionally strong winter sports nation.
Pinheiro Braathen, who began his career representing Norway, made headlines with his vibrant personality and samba dance moves. His remarkable journey from Norway to representing Brazil exemplifies the diverse and evolving nature of the Olympic spirit.
Why it Matters
The events of February 14 at the Milan Cortina Olympics encapsulate the highs and lows of competitive sports, showcasing the relentless pursuit of excellence and the emotional rollercoaster athletes endure. Canada’s successes and struggles reflect the broader narrative of the Games, where triumphs are often accompanied by challenges. As these athletes push through adversity, their stories resonate beyond the rink and slopes, inspiring future generations to strive for greatness, no matter the obstacles in their path.
