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Nordic Combined: A Fusion of Skiing Skills

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 21:34 GMT by NBC Chicago
      Locales: Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto, Lombardy, ITALY

Understanding the Essence of Nordic Combined

Nordic Combined isn't simply two sports awkwardly paired together; it's a carefully calibrated challenge. The competition begins with the ski jumping phase, where athletes are judged on distance and style. Crucially, the points earned in ski jumping aren't the final determinant of victory. Instead, these points are converted into a time handicap that dictates the starting order - and advantage/disadvantage - for the subsequent cross-country skiing race. The athlete who ultimately crosses the finish line in the cross-country race is declared the winner. This format demands a rare combination of skills: the courage and technique to excel in ski jumping, and the stamina and tactical awareness to thrive in cross-country skiing. It's a true test of the complete winter athlete.

The Olympic Program: Events to Watch in 2026

The 2026 Olympic program features four Nordic Combined events, offering a broad spectrum of competition. These include:

• Individual Normal Hill/10km: This is a foundational event, providing a solid test of all-around ability on a standard-sized hill followed by a 10-kilometer cross-country race. It's often seen as a benchmark for athletes.
• Individual Large Hill/10km: Upping the ante, the Large Hill event presents a greater challenge in the ski jumping phase, demanding more technical prowess and courage. The 10km cross-country ski race remains the same, testing the athletes' ability to capitalize on their jumping performance.
• Mixed Team Event: A relatively newer addition to the Olympic program, the Mixed Team event is gaining popularity. It showcases national teams comprised of a mix of male and female athletes, furthering inclusivity and providing a dynamic competitive landscape. The scoring follows a similar principle to the individual events, with two team members jumping and two skiing.
• Men's Team Event: This event offers a display of national strength and teamwork. Each team consists of four athletes, with two participating in the ski jumping portion and the other two tackling the cross-country course. Strategy and coordination are paramount in this event.

Key Dates: Mark Your Calendars

The Nordic Combined competition is scheduled as follows:

• February 15, 2026: Men's Individual Normal Hill/10km
• February 18, 2026: Mixed Team Event
• February 21, 2026: Men's Individual Large Hill/10km
• February 22, 2026: Men's Team Event

Scoring Dynamics: From Jump to Finish

The scoring system is the heart of Nordic Combined's unique appeal. In Individual events, the ski jumping component awards points based on distance and style, with judges assessing technical execution. These points are then mathematically translated into a time handicap for the cross-country race. The higher the ski jumping score, the shorter the time advantage granted at the start of the cross-country race. This means an exceptional ski jumper can build a lead, but it's not insurmountable. A strong cross-country skier can overcome a time deficit with superior endurance and technique. The Team event applies the same principle, combining the jump scores of two athletes to determine the handicap for their cross-country teammates.

Where to Tune In

For viewers in the United States, NBC and Peacock will be the go-to platforms for comprehensive coverage of the 2026 Winter Olympics, including all the thrilling action from the Nordic Combined events. Live streaming and on-demand options will be available, ensuring fans don't miss a moment of the competition.

Nordic Combined promises a spectacle of athleticism, strategy, and skill at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics. Whether you're a seasoned winter sports enthusiast or a newcomer to the games, this unique discipline is sure to captivate and inspire.