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Milan-Cortina Olympics: Alpine Skiing's Biggest Stars Set to Compete

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, January 5th 2026 at 4:24 GMT
      Locale: ITALY

The Alpine Skiing Spotlight: Legends and Rising Stars Converge at the Milan-Cortina Olympics

The upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, scheduled to run from February 6th to February 22nd, 2026, promise a captivating showcase of alpine skiing talent. With iconic venues and a roster brimming with established champions and emerging contenders, the event is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated competitions in the entire Games. The article from The Star highlights several key storylines, focusing on the potential for legendary performances and the evolving landscape of this thrilling sport.

A Legacy Continues: Lindsey Vonn's Enduring Influence & Mikaela Shiffrin’s Pursuit of Greatness

While Lindsey Vonn has officially retired (following a career marked by unparalleled dominance – 88 World Cup wins and three Olympic medals), her influence remains palpable within the alpine skiing world. The article emphasizes how her legacy inspires current racers, particularly American Mikaela Shiffrin. Shiffrin, arguably the most dominant female skier of her generation, is poised to compete in what will likely be her third Olympics. Her career has been punctuated by incredible highs – a staggering 83 World Cup wins (surpassing Vonn's record) and three Olympic medals already – but also frustrating setbacks, including struggles with consistency and the emotional toll of high-pressure competition.

The article points out that Shiffrin’s performance at the 2022 Beijing Olympics was marred by several unexpected crashes, a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sport. She ultimately secured a slalom gold medal, showcasing her resilience and skill, but the experience highlighted the mental fortitude required to succeed on the Olympic stage. As she approaches Milan-Cortina, Shiffrin will be aiming not only for medals across multiple disciplines (slalom, giant slalom, super-G, and combined) but also to demonstrate a renewed sense of control and composure under immense pressure. The article suggests that her mental game could be the deciding factor in whether she achieves legendary status alongside Vonn.

Dominance on the Men's Side: The Rise of Marco Odermatt

While Shiffrin commands attention on the women’s side, the men's alpine skiing scene is currently dominated by Swiss skier Marco Odermatt. The article paints a picture of a young man who has rapidly ascended to the pinnacle of the sport. Odermatt boasts an impressive record: two World Championship titles (giant slalom and super-G in 2023), multiple World Cup victories, and a seemingly effortless ability to navigate challenging courses. He's considered the clear favorite heading into Milan-Cortina, particularly in the giant slalom where he has shown remarkable consistency and power.

The article highlights that Odermatt’s dominance isn't just about physical prowess; it's also attributed to his technical precision and strategic approach to racing. He meticulously analyzes courses and adapts his technique accordingly, making him a formidable opponent across various disciplines. He is not without rivals, however. The article mentions Austrian skier Vincent Kriechmayr, the reigning Olympic super-G champion, as a significant threat, alongside other top contenders from Norway, France, and Italy.

The Venues: A Blend of History and Modernity

Milan-Cortina's selection as hosts underscores the region’s rich alpine skiing heritage. The Games will utilize both established venues with historical significance and newly renovated facilities to cater to modern competition standards. Cortina d'Ampezzo, a picturesque mountain resort town, hosted the Winter Olympics in 1956 and is steeped in tradition. The article notes that the iconic "Tofana" slope will be central to the downhill and super-G events.

Milan itself will host snow sports like freestyle skiing and snowboarding. The combination of these venues promises a visually stunning spectacle for viewers around the world, while also providing athletes with diverse challenges across different terrains. The article emphasizes that the Italian organizing committee is committed to delivering a sustainable and environmentally conscious Games, reflecting a broader shift in Olympic values.

Beyond the Stars: Emerging Talent & New Dynamics

While the focus rightly falls on established stars like Shiffrin and Odermatt, the article also acknowledges the emergence of new talent within the alpine skiing world. Younger skiers from various nations are steadily improving, challenging the traditional powerhouses of Austria, Switzerland, Norway, and the United States. This increased competition promises to create thrilling races and potentially disrupt established hierarchies. The article suggests that the Milan-Cortina Olympics could be a platform for these rising stars to announce their arrival on the world stage.

Furthermore, changes in equipment regulations and training techniques are constantly reshaping the sport. The pursuit of marginal gains – whether through advanced aerodynamic designs or innovative fitness regimes – is driving innovation and pushing athletes to their physical limits. This constant evolution ensures that alpine skiing remains a dynamic and unpredictable spectacle.

In conclusion, the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics promise a captivating chapter in the history of alpine skiing. With legendary figures like Shiffrin seeking to cement their legacies, rising stars like Odermatt vying for dominance, and iconic venues providing a stunning backdrop, the Games are poised to deliver unforgettable moments and inspire a new generation of skiers worldwide. The article successfully captures the excitement surrounding these upcoming games and highlights the key storylines that will shape the competition.