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Nordic Combined: Where Ski Jumping Meets Cross-Country Racing

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 22:56 GMT by NBC Washington
      Locales: Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto, Lombardy, Valle d'Aosta, ITALY

The Essence of Nordic Combined

Nordic Combined isn't simply about being good at two sports; it's about seamlessly integrating them. The competition begins with the ski jumping portion, where athletes are judged on distance and style. Crucially, the performance in ski jumping directly impacts the subsequent cross-country race. Athletes aren't merely competing for points in each event; they're earning a head start - or a deficit - in the cross-country race based on their jumping score. This creates a fascinating dynamic where a strong jumper can defend a lead, while a weaker jumper must overcome a time disadvantage through sheer skiing prowess.

This format makes Nordic Combined uniquely strategic. An athlete might take a risk on a longer jump to maximize their time advantage, even if it means sacrificing style points. Conversely, a more conservative approach could yield consistent points and a manageable gap to close in the cross-country portion. It's this interplay between risk and reward that makes the sport so captivating.

2026 Olympic Schedule & Venues

The 2026 Olympic Nordic Combined events are scheduled as follows (subject to change):

• February 7, 2026: Men's Individual Normal Hill/10km - Val di Fiemme
• February 9, 2026: Men's Team Normal Hill/4x5km - Val di Fiemme
• February 13, 2026: Mixed Team Normal Hill/4x5km - Cortina d'Ampezzo

Val di Fiemme, located in the picturesque Trentino region of Italy, will be a hub for the men's events. This location boasts a long tradition of hosting Nordic skiing competitions and provides a stunning backdrop for the athletes. Cortina d'Ampezzo, the "Queen of the Dolomites," will host the mixed team event. Its high-altitude terrain and challenging course will undoubtedly test the endurance of the athletes.

Decoding the Format: From Jump to Ski

The competition format is relatively straightforward, but understanding the nuances is key to appreciating the strategic depth. The ski jumping portion is scored using a complex system that considers distance, hill size, and judges' evaluations of style. Points are awarded based on these criteria, and these points are then converted into a time handicap for the cross-country race.

The athlete with the highest ski jumping score starts the cross-country race first. Subsequent athletes begin the race with a time delay corresponding to the difference between their jumping score and the leader's. For example, if the leader scores 150 points and an athlete scores 140 points, that athlete will start the cross-country race 10 seconds after the leader (the conversion rate varies).

The cross-country race itself is a classic distance event. The goal is simple: be the first to cross the finish line. However, the starting order significantly impacts the race dynamics. The leader faces the pressure of maintaining their lead, while those starting behind must close the gap, creating a thrilling pursuit.

Why Watch Nordic Combined?

Nordic Combined is a sport that truly exemplifies the spirit of the Winter Olympics. It demands an exceptional level of athleticism, technical skill, and strategic thinking. The time handicap system consistently delivers nail-biting finishes, as athletes battle not only against their opponents but also against the clock. The addition of the mixed team event further enhances the spectacle, showcasing the diversity and inclusivity of the sport.

Beyond the competition, the venues themselves - Val di Fiemme and Cortina d'Ampezzo - offer breathtaking scenery, immersing viewers in the beauty of the Italian Alps. Whether you're a seasoned winter sports enthusiast or a newcomer to the Games, Nordic Combined is a competition that is sure to entertain and inspire.