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Jamaica's Bobsled Team Makes History at 2026 Winter Olympics

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 16:14 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: JAMAICA, UNITED STATES, CANADA

Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy - February 12th, 2026 - The echoes of 'Cool Runnings' are resonating strongly in the Italian Alps this week as Jamaica's bobsled team once again makes history at the Winter Olympics. More than just a nostalgic nod to the 1988 Calgary team, this iteration represents a genuine resurgence, with both men's and women's teams demonstrating competitive spirit and technical prowess that signals a new era for Jamaican bobsledding.

For those unfamiliar, the story of Jamaica's bobsled team began as a remarkable underdog tale. The 1988 team, famously depicted in the Disney film, overcame immense logistical and climate-related challenges to simply qualify for the Games. While they didn't reach the podium, their infectious enthusiasm and sheer determination captured the hearts of millions. Following a period of sporadic participation and funding difficulties, the team has spent the last decade rebuilding, focusing on developing a robust training program and attracting talented athletes - both those born in Jamaica and members of the Jamaican diaspora.

A New Generation, A Renewed Focus

This 2026 team isn't simply relying on heartwarming narrative. While the spirit of perseverance remains central, significant investment in coaching, equipment, and year-round training facilities - including a partnership with the Canadian Bobsleigh Association allowing access to crucial ice time - has allowed these athletes to become genuine contenders. The team has benefitted from experienced international coaches who have refined their technique and strategic approach to the sport.

Men's Bobsled: Challenging the Established Order

The men's team, piloted by veteran Winston Watt, is aiming for a top-ten finish. Watt, a third-generation Jamaican-Canadian, brings a wealth of experience to the team, having honed his skills on the North American circuit. The team's runs have been consistently improving during the pre-Olympic World Cup season, showcasing their ability to navigate the challenging tracks with precision and speed.

Event Schedule: The men's bobsled competition commences on February 15th with the first two heats. The final two heats are scheduled for February 16th, culminating in the medal ceremony. Live coverage will be available on NBC Sports, CBC, and streaming platforms such as Peacock and CBC Gem. (See 'How to Watch' section below for more details).

Updated Scores: (As of February 12th, 2026, preliminary training runs place Jamaica 14th out of 28 teams. Official competition scores will be updated live on the official Olympics website: [ https://olympics.com/en/ ])

Women's Bobsled: A Rising Force

Perhaps the most exciting development is the emergence of the Jamaican women's bobsled team. Led by captain and driver Nyesha Thompson, this is the first time Jamaica has sent a women's team to the Winter Olympics. Thompson, a former track and field athlete, transitioned to bobsledding just three years ago and has rapidly become a star. The team's strength lies in its explosive power and seamless coordination. They've consistently outperformed expectations in recent competitions, demonstrating a level of skill that has surprised many observers.

Event Schedule: The women's bobsled competition takes place on February 18th and 19th, with two heats each day. The medal ceremony is scheduled for February 19th evening. Streaming options include Eurosport Player, and the official Olympics app.

Updated Scores: (Preliminary training runs have positioned the women's team in 11th place. Live updates and results will be posted at [ https://olympics.com/en/ ])

Beyond the Track: Inspiring a Nation

The impact of the Jamaican bobsled team extends far beyond the Olympic arena. Their story continues to inspire Jamaicans, particularly young people, to pursue their dreams regardless of the obstacles. The team's success has sparked renewed interest in winter sports within Jamaica, leading to calls for the development of local facilities. The Jamaican Bobsleigh Federation is actively seeking funding to establish a year-round training center in Jamaica, which would not only benefit the national team but also promote winter sports tourism.

How to Watch

The 2026 Winter Olympics are being broadcast by numerous networks and streaming services. In the United States, coverage is primarily on NBC, USA Network, and Peacock. In Canada, CBC and TSN are the main broadcasters, with streaming available on CBC Gem and TSN+. For international viewers, check your local listings for Olympic coverage. The official Olympics website ([ https://olympics.com/en/ ]) also provides live streaming and on-demand replays.

Follow Us

Stay connected with the Jamaican Bobsled team's journey by following them on:

• Official Website: [ http://www.jamaicabobsleigh.com ]
• Instagram: @jamaicabobsleigh
• Twitter: @jamaicabobsleigh
• Facebook: Jamaican Bobsleigh Federation