Countdown to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics

Drew Doughty, a veteran defenseman for the Los Angeles Kings, is determined to represent Canada at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Having previously won gold medals in 2010 and 2014, Doughty expressed his expectations to be selected for the team during Hockey Canada's 2025 National Teams Orientation Camp. At nearly 36 years old, he acknowledges the challenges of making the roster but remains motivated by the opportunity to showcase his skills after a difficult period in his career, which included injuries and team struggles. Doughty reflected on the disappointment of missing the 2018 and 2022 Olympics due to NHL decisions, emphasizing his desire to demonstrate his enduring talent on the international stage.

Doughty expects to represent Canada at 2026 Olympics

Jamie Anderson, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in slopestyle snowboarding, has announced her intention to compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics, just five months after giving birth to her second child. At 35, Anderson aims to redefine expectations for female athletes and mothers in competitive sports. She has a storied career, including victories at the 2014 and 2018 Olympics, and is the most decorated female athlete in X Games history. Anderson's return is not just about personal achievement; she hopes to inspire other women and mothers to pursue their athletic goals. Despite facing younger competitors, Anderson is focused on her training and the logistics of balancing family life with her competitive aspirations.

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In a significant decision, the International Bobsled and Skeleton Federation has barred Russian athletes from competing at the 2026 Winter Olympics. This follows a similar ruling by the International Luge Federation, both stemming from Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The federation's congress voted against allowing Russian athletes to compete as neutrals, citing fairness concerns for Ukrainian athletes. This decision reflects ongoing tensions in international sports and the impact of geopolitical issues on athlete participation.

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Teams Yoshimura and Yamaguchi have emerged victorious in the Japanese Olympic curling trials, positioning themselves for a chance to compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics. Both teams must now secure their spots at the Olympic Qualification Event in December. The trials showcased intense competition, with Team Yoshimura overcoming early setbacks to claim their place. Coach Niklas Edin, a seasoned Olympian, will guide Team Yamaguchi as they aim for Olympic success.

Yoshimura, Yamaguchi win Japanese Olympic curling trials

As the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics approach, various athletes and teams are preparing for qualification events and training camps. The decisions made by governing bodies regarding athlete participation, particularly concerning Russian athletes, will have lasting implications for the Games. Additionally, the narratives surrounding athletes like Doughty and Anderson highlight the evolving landscape of sports, where age and motherhood are increasingly seen as challenges to overcome rather than barriers to success.

• “I expect to be on the team,” — Drew Doughty, Defenseman, Los Angeles Kings

Doughty expects to represent Canada at 2026 Olympics

• “I feel excited to have the opportunity to return and hopefully inspire other women and mothers that we can do it,” — Jamie Anderson, Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist

2-Time Olympic Gold Medalist Jamie Anderson Announces Comeback to Slopestyle Snowboarding After Second Baby

• “Even if they were allowed in, how would it work? Is it fair to Ukraine, to Ukrainian athletes, to other athletes that might have family or connections there? It would just create a whole storm of issues.” — Kaillie Humphries, U.S. Bobsledder

While the exclusion of Russian athletes from the 2026 Olympics has been confirmed by the International Bobsled and Skeleton Federation, there are differing opinions on the fairness and implications of this decision. Some argue it is necessary for maintaining integrity in sports, while others believe it unfairly punishes athletes not directly involved in political actions.