The 2026 Winter Olympic Games in northern Italy are set to kick off in exactly 100 days from Wednesday with the opening ceremony at the famed San Siro Stadium in Milan. As the countdown begins, let’s take a closer look at 10 Canadian athletes who are gearing up for the global stage and aiming for Olympic glory this February.
1. **Will Dandjinou (short track speed skating):** Dandjinou, standing tall at six-foot-three, dominated the short track scene last season, clinching multiple victories on the World Tour and securing his first overall title. With an impressive track record, including a gold in the 1,500 meters at the world championships, Dandjinou is a force to be reckoned with as he eyes his Olympic debut.
2. **Rachel Homan (curling):** Despite past Olympic disappointments, Homan’s team is on a winning streak, claiming consecutive world championships and Grand Slam titles. With their eyes set on the women’s gold in Milan, Homan and her team are poised to make a strong comeback at the upcoming Games.
3. **Connor McDavid (hockey):** The hockey phenom aims to add an Olympic gold to his already impressive list of achievements. With NHL players returning to the Games, McDavid, known for his scoring prowess, is gearing up for a shot at Olympic glory in Milan.
4. **Marie-Philip Poulin (hockey):** Poulin, a veteran in the Canadian women’s team, looks to add to her legacy with another stellar performance at the upcoming Olympics. As a proven leader and three-time Olympic gold medalist, Poulin is determined to lead her team to victory once again.
5. **Mikaël Kingsbury (freestyle skiing):** Kingsbury, the reigning moguls champion, is eyeing a historic fourth consecutive double gold at the Olympics. With an impressive record and a hunger for victory, Kingsbury is set to showcase his skills on the Olympic stage in Milan.
6. **Ivanie Blondin (long track speed skating):** Blondin, a standout in speed skating, has been a consistent medal winner at major events. With a strong performance at the world championships and World Cup circuit, Blondin is a top contender for Olympic success.
7. **Jack Crawford (alpine skiing):** Crawford, known for his clutch performances, made history with a significant win at the Kitzbühel downhill race. With past Olympic and world championship successes, Crawford is poised to make his mark at the upcoming Games.
8. **Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier (figure skating):** The ice dance duo aims to continue their podium success at the Olympics after consistent performances at world championships. With a tough competition ahead, Gilles and Poirier are determined to secure a spot on the Olympic figure skating podium.
9. **Éliot Grondin (snowboard cross):** Grondin, a rising star in snowboard cross, has been dominating the competition with multiple gold medals and a world championship title. With his sights set on Olympic success, Grondin is a strong contender in the snowboard cross event.
10. **Reece Howden (ski cross):** Howden, a standout in ski cross, has been a consistent performer on the World Cup circuit. With multiple victories and championship titles under his belt, Howden is a top medal contender for Canada in Italy.
As these Canadian athletes prepare to showcase their talents on the international stage, the excitement builds for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.
