The upcoming 2026 Winter Olympic Games in northern Italy are set to kick off in exactly 100 days with the opening ceremony taking place at the renowned San Siro Stadium in Milan. As the countdown begins, here are 10 Canadian athletes to keep an eye on as they gear up for the Olympics:
1. **Will Dandjinou (short track speed skating):** Canada dominated the short track speed skating scene last season, with Dandjinou emerging as a standout performer. He clinched the overall title on the World Tour and secured multiple medals at the world championships. Eyes are now on him as he prepares for his Olympic debut.
2. **Rachel Homan (curling):** Homan’s curling team is a strong contender for the women’s gold in Milan after their recent successes at the world championships. They are aiming to make a mark at the Olympics following their stellar performance in recent competitions.
3. **Connor McDavid (hockey):** The hockey star is eyeing an Olympic gold to add to his impressive list of achievements in the sport. With NHL players returning to the Games, McDavid is set to lead Team Canada in their quest for glory.
4. **Marie-Philip Poulin (hockey):** Poulin, a veteran in the Canadian women’s hockey team, is gearing up for her fifth Olympics. With a legacy of clutch performances, she aims to secure another gold for her team in Milan.
5. **Mikaël Kingsbury (freestyle skiing):** The reigning mogul skiing champion is looking to continue his dominance on the slopes at the upcoming Olympics. Kingsbury’s pursuit of a fourth consecutive double gold will be one of the highlights to watch.
6. **Ivanie Blondin (long track speed skating):** Blondin, a decorated speed skater, has been a consistent medal winner in recent world championships. Her form on the World Cup circuit indicates she is a strong contender for Olympic glory.
7. **Jack Crawford (alpine skiing):** Crawford’s impressive win at the Kitzbühel downhill has positioned him as a top contender in alpine skiing. His consistent performances on the global stage make him a name to watch in the upcoming Winter Games.
8. **Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier (figure skating):** The ice dance duo is aiming to secure a spot on the Olympic podium after their strong showings at recent world championships. Their rivalry with top American pairs adds excitement to the figure skating competition.
9. **Éliot Grondin (snowboard cross):** Grondin’s rise as the top snowboard crosser sets the stage for an exciting performance at the Olympics. With a string of victories and titles, he is a formidable force in the snowboarding circuit.
10. **Reece Howden (ski cross):** Howden’s dominance in ski cross has placed him as a key medal hopeful for Canada at the Winter Games. His stellar performances on the World Cup circuit position him as a strong contender for Olympic success.
As the anticipation builds for the 2026 Winter Olympics, these Canadian athletes are ready to showcase their talents on the global stage.