As the countdown to the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games begins, over 2,900 athletes, including 207 from Canada, are gearing up to chase their Olympic aspirations. This prestigious event will feature 116 competitions across eight sports and 16 disciplines, promising exhilarating moments from both seasoned competitors and emerging talents. Here, we spotlight ten remarkable athletes to keep an eye on as the Games unfold.
Mikaela Shiffrin: The Alpine Icon’s Comeback Quest
Mikaela Shiffrin, hailed as one of the greatest alpine skiers in history, is on a redemption path following a disappointing performance at the 2022 Beijing Olympics. The 30-year-old two-time Olympic champion, who made history as the youngest-ever slalom gold medallist in Sochi 2014, is seeking to reclaim her status after an uncharacteristic showing in Beijing where she failed to medal in three events. Following a serious injury in late 2024, Shiffrin has rebounded impressively, demonstrating her prowess in the lead-up to Milan. With the potential to team up with fellow American skiing legend Lindsey Vonn, Shiffrin is poised to add more gold to her illustrious career.
Lindsey Vonn: The Queen’s Final Bow
At 41, Lindsey Vonn returns to the Olympic stage, determined to secure her place among alpine skiing’s legends one last time. A four-time Overall World Cup champion, Vonn is battling through a torn ACL as she prepares for her sixth and final Olympics. Despite a five-year hiatus due to injuries, she has shown remarkable resilience, recently earning the title of the oldest athlete to win a World Cup race. Vonn’s journey is not just about medals; it’s a celebration of a storied career that has inspired countless athletes.
Ilia Malinin: The Quad God Takes Flight
American figure skater Ilia Malinin is set to dazzle audiences at his Olympic debut in Milan after narrowly missing out on the 2022 Games. The 21-year-old, known as the “Quad God,” has taken the skating world by storm with his record-breaking performances, including landing a quadruple Axel jump in competition. Fresh from a fourth consecutive win at the U.S. Championships, Malinin is the favourite for men’s singles gold and is sure to showcase his signature moves, including the exciting “Raspberry Twists.”
Kaillie Humphries: A Trailblazer in Bobsledding
Kaillie Humphries, the first woman to win Olympic gold for two different countries, is on the verge of making history again in Milan. After switching her allegiance to the United States following allegations of abuse within the Canadian federation, Humphries claimed gold in the inaugural monobob event at the 2022 Beijing Olympics. Recently returning to competition after a hiatus for personal reasons, the 40-year-old is eager to defend her title and further solidify her legacy in the sport.
Chloe Kim: Snowboarding’s Golden Girl
Chloe Kim is back on the Olympic circuit, aiming to defend her halfpipe title amidst concerns over a recent shoulder injury. The 25-year-old, who made history as the youngest female Olympic snowboarding champion in 2018, is known for her innovative tricks and competitive spirit. With two Olympic golds already to her name, Kim is determined to push the limits of her sport and potentially land a 1260 at the Games.
Eileen Gu: The Freestyle Phenom
Eileen Gu, the “Snow Princess” of China, is another top contender in Milan, hoping to add slopestyle gold to her already impressive collection of medals from the Beijing Olympics. After winning two golds and a silver at the last Games, the California-born athlete has continued to excel, recently achieving her record-extending 20th victory in slopestyle competitions. At just 22, Gu remains a favourite to dominate the freestyle events in Italy.
Choi Min-jeong: Short-Track Speed Skating Royalty
Choi Min-jeong, South Korea’s short-track speed skating star, is looking to secure her third consecutive Olympic gold in the 1,500 metres. Having set the world record at just 18 and claimed gold in both Pyeongchang and Beijing, she is a formidable presence on the ice. As she prepares for her third Winter Games, Choi is keen to further establish her legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Johannes Høsflot Klæbo: Cross-Country’s Dominant Force
Norwegian cross-country skier Johannes Høsflot Klæbo is a name synonymous with success in his sport. Already boasting five Olympic golds and numerous World Cup victories, Klæbo is set on expanding his medal tally in Milan. His remarkable consistency and competitive spirit make him the athlete to beat, as he aims to solidify his status as one of the sport’s all-time legends.
Bruce Mouat: Curling’s Elite
Scottish skip Bruce Mouat is on a mission to claim the Olympic gold that has eluded him. After leading his team to victory in multiple championships, including two World Championships, he is the reigning World Champion and a favourite for the podium. His team’s incredible performance in recent years positions them as a strong contender for the first men’s curling gold for Great Britain since the sport’s Olympic inception.
Julia Taubitz: The Luge Hopeful
After a disappointing result at the 2022 Olympics, German luge star Julia Taubitz is eager to seize her moment in Milan. With a string of World Championship victories since her Olympic setback, she has emerged as a favourite to win gold. Taubitz’s determination and recent form suggest she is well-prepared to challenge for the top spot in the singles event.
Why it Matters
The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics represent a significant chapter in the careers of these athletes, as they strive not only for personal glory but also to inspire the next generation of sports enthusiasts. The stories of resilience, redemption, and groundbreaking achievements remind us of the spirit of the Games, where athletes from all corners of the globe come together to showcase their talent and determination on one of the world’s largest sporting stages. As the excitement builds, fans can anticipate thrilling competitions and unforgettable moments that will resonate long after the medals are awarded.
