2026 Alpine Skiing Schedule Revealed
Locales: Lombardy, Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige, Valle d'Aosta, ITALY

A Packed Schedule of Alpine Action
The alpine skiing program is extensive, spanning over a week and offering a diverse range of disciplines. The preliminary schedule, confirmed by the International Ski Federation (ISF), kicks off with the Downhill races on February 18th for men and February 21st for women. This is followed swiftly by the Super-G events on February 22nd (men) and February 24th (women). The technical disciplines then take center stage, beginning with the Giant Slalom on February 25th for men and 26th for women, and culminating in the notoriously challenging Slalom races on February 27th and 28th respectively. Adding to the complexity, the Alpine Combined, testing skiers' all-around ability, will be held on March 1st and 2nd. Notably, the dynamic Mixed Team Parallel event, a relatively recent addition to the Olympic program, will conclude the alpine skiing competitions on March 3rd. This event's popularity stems from its fast-paced, head-to-head format, introducing a team element that heightens the drama.
National Teams to Watch
The battle for alpine supremacy will, as always, be fiercely contested. Several nations have consistently dominated the sport, and the 2026 Olympics are expected to be no different. Austria, with its deep-rooted skiing tradition and extensive training programs, is a perennial powerhouse. Switzerland, similarly, boasts a continuous pipeline of world-class skiers, known for their technical precision and fearless approach. Norway is another consistent threat across all disciplines, benefiting from a strong sporting culture and significant investment in winter sports. The United States team has been steadily gaining momentum, particularly in recent World Cup competitions, and is expected to challenge for multiple medals. However, all eyes will be on the host nation, Italy. The Italian team will be fueled by home-field advantage and national pride, aiming to deliver memorable performances in front of their enthusiastic fans. Dark horse contenders from countries like France and Canada could also upset the established order.
Iconic Venues and Course Challenges
The choice of venues is crucial to a successful alpine skiing competition, and the Milan-Cortina Games promise spectacular settings. Cortina d'Ampezzo will serve as the main hub, hosting the majority of the events including Downhill, Super-G, and Combined. Its challenging courses and breathtaking scenery have made it a legendary location in alpine skiing history. Bormio, known for its demanding terrain and steep inclines, will host the men's Downhill and Super-G. This venue will truly test the skiers' speed and control. The slalom races will unfold in the picturesque town of Madonna di Campiglio, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and technically intricate course. Finally, the Giant Slalom will be held at Monte Puster, a venue known for its wide, flowing pistes and demanding rhythm changes. Course preparation will be pivotal, with organizers closely monitoring weather conditions to ensure fair and safe racing.
What to Expect from the 2026 Games
Beyond the established stars, the 2026 Olympics are likely to unveil a new generation of alpine skiing talent. Keep an eye out for young skiers who have been making waves on the World Cup circuit. The Mixed Team Parallel event is predicted to be a major highlight, offering a unique blend of individual skill and team strategy. The unpredictable nature of alpine skiing - where fractions of a second separate champions from contenders - means that any number of athletes could emerge victorious. The constant threat of changing weather conditions adds another layer of complexity, making course knowledge and adaptability essential for success. With a combination of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and challenging courses, the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics promise to deliver a thrilling and unforgettable alpine skiing experience.
Read the Full NBC Chicago Article at:
[ https://www.nbcchicago.com/olympics/2026-milan-cortina/alpine-skiing-2026-milan-cortina-winter-olympic-games/3875863/ ]