The countdown to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, has officially hit the 100-day mark. The Games will commence with the opening ceremony at the historic San Siro Stadium. As Canadian athletes prepare, here are ten standout competitors to watch in the lead-up to the Olympics this February.
Top 10 Canadians to Watch at the Winter Olympics
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William Dandjinou (Short Track Speed Skating)
Canada dominated short track skating last season with 37 medals, including 21 golds. Dandjinou emerged as a key figure, winning eight individual races on the World Tour. As he prepares for his Olympic debut, he hopes to leverage his impressive stature for success.
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Rachel Homan (Curling)
After past disappointments, Homan’s team is favored for Olympic gold, thanks to back-to-back world championships. They remain undefeated against Canadian opponents for over a year, and they look strong heading into the Canadian Olympic trials.
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Connor McDavid (Hockey)
Renowned as one of the best hockey players globally, McDavid seeks to win his first Olympic gold. This will be the first opportunity for NHL players to compete since 2014, and many anticipate a rematch against the United States.
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Marie-Philip Poulin (Hockey)
Poulin prepares for her fifth Olympic Games, looking to add to her legacy as an unparalleled player in women’s hockey. She is a three-time Olympic gold medalist and holds the unique distinction of scoring in four Olympic finals.
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Mikaël Kingsbury (Freestyle Skiing)
Known as the moguls GOAT, Kingsbury ranks at the pinnacle of the sport with 99 career victories. He aims for a historic fourth consecutive double gold at the world championships, having won gold in dual moguls events.
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Ivanie Blondin (Long Track Speed Skating)
After an impressive Olympic performance in 2022, Blondin has continued to excel. She led Canadian women with four solo medals last season and looks to add to her collection in Milan.
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Jack Crawford (Alpine Skiing)
Crawford made headlines with his win at the Kitzbühel downhill, a historic feat for Canada. He also clinched gold at the super-G during the 2023 world championships, showcasing his talent on the slopes.
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Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier (Figure Skating)
This duo has achieved podium finishes at four out of the last five world championships. They face tough competition but are poised to put Canada back on the Olympic figure skating podium.
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Éliot Grondin (Snowboard Cross)
Since winning medals in 2022, Grondin has become a top contender. He dominated the previous season, capturing multiple medals and securing the World Cup title.
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Reece Howden (Ski Cross)
Leading Canada in ski cross, Howden claimed seven wins last season, demonstrating his dominance on the World Cup circuit. Meanwhile, Marielle Thompson is making a comeback after injury, adding further excitement to the competition.
As they continue to compete and hone their skills, these athletes are set to embody Canada’s spirit at the 2026 Winter Olympiad. Fans across the nation are eager to support their achievements as they aim for the podium in Milan.
