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US Alpine Ski Team Faces Legacy & Future at Milan Cortina Olympics

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  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. ces-legacy-future-at-milan-cortina-olympics.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, December 29th 2025 at 6:10 GMT by The Boston Globe

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A New Era Dawns: The US Alpine Ski Team Navigates Legacy & Future at the Milan Cortina Olympics

The upcoming Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics mark a pivotal moment for the United States’ alpine ski team, one steeped in both the weight of legendary legacies and the burgeoning promise of a new generation. As reported by the Boston Globe (https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/12/29/sports/olympics-us-alpine-ski-team-lindsey-vonn-mikaela-shiffrin/), the team faces the challenge of transitioning from an era dominated by Lindsey Vonn and Mikaela Shiffrin while simultaneously building a sustainable future for American alpine skiing.

The shadow of Vonn, who retired in 2020 after a career punctuated by four Olympic medals and numerous World Cup victories, remains significant. Her impact extended far beyond the slopes; she became a global icon, inspiring countless young skiers and significantly boosting the profile of the sport in the United States. Similarly, Shiffrin’s dominance across multiple disciplines – slalom and giant slalom being her specialties – has been unparalleled for over a decade. While Shiffrin is still actively competing (and aiming to compete at Cortina), the team acknowledges that the landscape will inevitably shift as these titans age and eventually step away completely.

The article highlights the complex emotions surrounding Shiffrin’s participation. While she remains a formidable force, her recent seasons have been marked by both incredible triumphs and heartbreaking setbacks, including several high-profile crashes and missed gates. The pressure on her to perform at an Olympic level is immense, compounded by the expectation that she will carry the team's hopes for gold. The Globe piece notes that Shiffrin’s mental fortitude and ability to manage expectations will be crucial factors in her success at Cortina. Her recent World Cup performance in Lienz (as detailed in a follow-up article linked within the original) demonstrated a renewed focus and determination, suggesting she's actively working on addressing these challenges.

However, the US team isn’t solely reliant on Shiffrin. A crucial element of their strategy is fostering the development of younger skiers who can step into leadership roles. The Globe identifies several promising athletes poised to make an impact at Cortina and beyond. Among them are Paula Moltzan, a slalom specialist who has consistently improved her World Cup ranking and secured multiple podium finishes; River Radamus, a versatile skier with strong giant slalom and super-G capabilities; and Luke Gartman, a rising star in the men’s downhill and super-G events. The article emphasizes that these athletes represent more than just potential medal contenders; they are vital for ensuring the long-term health of the US alpine program.

The team's coaching staff is also undergoing adjustments to support this generational shift. While veteran coaches remain, there's a concerted effort to integrate younger perspectives and innovative training methods. This includes leveraging data analytics and sports science to optimize athlete performance and injury prevention – a critical area given the demanding nature of alpine skiing. The article mentions that US Ski & Snowboard is investing heavily in these areas, recognizing that technological advancements are essential for maintaining competitiveness on the world stage.

Beyond individual talent and coaching strategies, the Globe piece explores the broader challenges facing US alpine skiing. Funding remains a persistent issue. While sponsorships have helped, securing consistent financial support to cover training costs, equipment, and travel is an ongoing battle. The article points out that other nations, particularly those in Europe with strong alpine traditions, often benefit from greater government investment and established infrastructure. This disparity can put American skiers at a disadvantage.

Furthermore, the accessibility of high-quality snow conditions for training presents another hurdle. While the US boasts numerous ski resorts, consistent snowfall is increasingly unpredictable due to climate change. The team frequently relies on international training camps in Europe to ensure athletes receive adequate preparation. The follow-up article linked within the Globe piece details the logistical complexities and costs associated with these overseas trips.

Looking ahead to Milan Cortina 2026, the US alpine ski team faces a complex equation: honoring the legacy of Vonn and Shiffrin while simultaneously embracing a future built on emerging talent and innovative approaches. The pressure is high, but the potential for success remains palpable. The article concludes that the true measure of this era won't just be the medals earned at Cortina, but rather the foundation laid for sustained excellence in American alpine skiing for years to come – ensuring that the next generation can follow in the footsteps of giants and continue to inspire a nation. The team’s ability to balance these competing demands will ultimately define their Olympic journey and shape the future of US alpine skiing.

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