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First European athletes confirmed for Milano-Cortina 2026

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in EYOF, Bakuriani 2025, Olympic Movement, Winter Sports. No Comments on First European athletes confirmed for Milano-Cortina 2026

SportEurope | Winter Sports

With just over a year to go until the start of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, several European national teams have already begun to officially confirm some of their athletes, particularly in team sports and in disciplines with closed qualification calendars. While most final rosters will not be announced until weeks before the event, a number of high-profile names are already clearly on track to be part of the Olympic stage.

Official confirmations

Ice hockey: Sweden leads the way

VANO

The Swedish men’s national ice hockey team has become one of the first European sides to announce an official list of 25 players for the Olympic tournament. The Nordic team is relying on a blend of Olympic experience and established talent from European and North American leagues, sending a clear signal of early preparation for Milano-Cortina 2026.

Figure skating: Great Britain

In figure skating, Lewis Gibson has been confirmed as a member of the British team, consolidating his status as one of Great Britain’s leading ice dance athletes and one of the first names officially secured for the Games.

Skeleton: British leadership

Britain’s Matt Weston, current overall Skeleton World Cup champion, is shaping up as one of Europe’s strongest contenders in the discipline. His dominance on the international circuit places him among the athletes virtually assured of representing Great Britain in 2026.

European athletes with a high probability of selection

Beyond the official confirmations, several European nations already have athletes who, based on recent results and secured quotas, are highly likely to compete at the Olympic Games, pending formal ratification by their respective federations.

Norway

The Nordic powerhouse is once again expected to play a leading role in winter sports. Among the names topping current projections are:

  • Johannes Høsflot Klæbo (cross-country skiing)
  • Sturla Holm Lægreid (biathlon)
  • Heidi Weng and Tiril Udnes Weng (cross-country skiing)
  • Hallgeir Engebråten (speed skating)

Switzerland and Germany

In ice hockey, nations such as Switzerland and Germany are already working with well-defined elite cores. Players like Roman Josi (Switzerland) and Leon Draisaitl (Germany) feature prominently in Olympic projections, awaiting final confirmation.

Belgium and Poland

  • Belgium has already secured participation in speed skating, led by athletes such as Bart Swings and Hanne Desmet.
  • Poland has obtained quotas across several disciplines (skating, biathlon, skiing and snowboarding) and has begun to announce its first names on a progressive basis.

A process still ongoing

The International Olympic Committee and national federations have reiterated that, in most individual sports, quota allocation comes before the final selection of athletes. As a result, many European teams will wait for national championships, internal selection criteria or the conclusion of the winter season before confirming their final Olympic rosters.

With Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo as host cities, the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games will take place from 6 to 22 February 2026, and Europe is once again expected to play a central role both in terms of participation numbers and medal ambitions.

SportEurope will continue to report on official confirmations and follow the progress of European teams on their road to Milano-Cortina 2026.

Milano-Cortina 2026: Europe’s Next Generation Takes the Stage

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in Olympic Movement, Bakuriani 2025, Winter Sports. No Comments on Milano-Cortina 2026: Europe’s Next Generation Takes the Stage

7 November 2025
The countdown is on: 91 days to go until the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, and Europe’s new generation of winter athletes is ready to step into the spotlight.

After years of groundwork through the European Youth Olympic Festivals (EYOF) in Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2023 and Bakuriani 2025, the continent approaches these Games with depth, confidence and clear signs of renewal.

Italy’s Stage, Europe’s Moment

Milano-Cortina will bring together two worlds — the modern urban pulse of Milan and the Alpine heritage of Cortina d’Ampezzo — in a format that aims to be sustainable, connected and inclusive.
The Arena di Verona will host the closing ceremony, adding a touch of history and culture to a Games that symbolise both Italian excellence and European unity.

🏔️ From Friuli-Venezia Giulia to Bakuriani: The Pathway to the Podium

Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2023: Foundations of the Future

The EYOF in Friuli-Venezia Giulia launched this new cycle of talent. Young Europeans excelled in traditional and emerging disciplines — alpine skiing, biathlon, freestyle and snowboard — setting benchmarks that would carry into their national teams.
Nations like Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and France refined their youth systems there, turning promise into structure.

Bakuriani 2025: Confirmation of the Rebuild

In Bakuriani (Georgia), the next chapter unfolded. The 2025 EYOF showcased the evolution of that same generation — more technical, more adaptable, and more competitive than ever.
Under challenging conditions, Europe dominated once again, confirming the depth of its development networks from the Alps to the Caucasus.

🌍 Gangwon 2024: European Excellence on a Global Stage

At the Winter Youth Olympic Games in Gangwon (South Korea), Europe’s young athletes took control of the medal tables.
From Switzerland and Austria to France, Italy and Germany, the continent’s talent shone across alpine skiing, Nordic combined and biathlon. Those results were not isolated successes — they were a preview of what’s to come in 2026.

Gangwon became proof that Europe’s youth development programmes are not only consistent but world-leading, producing athletes ready to win on any stage.

⚡ The New DNA of European Winter Sport

This new generation brings a distinctive identity:

  • Multi-skilled: blending classical technique with freestyle creativity.
  • Data-driven: training with technology, analytics and mental preparation.
  • Internationally experienced: accustomed to Olympic settings before their senior debut.

They represent a Europe that competes with imagination and confidence — one that no longer waits for the future but builds it actively through structure and opportunity.

🔜 Towards Milano-Cortina 2026

As teams finalise their rosters and test events wrap up, Milano-Cortina is set to be a showcase of continuity and renewal.
The athletes who grew through Friuli-Venezia and Bakuriani, and triumphed in Gangwon, will arrive not as newcomers — but as the face of a new European era in winter sport.

Europe’s next champions are no longer on the horizon.
They are already here.

From Teen Dreams to Olympic Glory: The Future of Winter Sports

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in Bakuriani 2025, EOC, Olympic Movement, Winter Sports. No Comments on From Teen Dreams to Olympic Glory: The Future of Winter Sports

✨ The Piotr Nurowski Prize: celebrating the future of European sport ✨

Every year, the Piotr Nurowski Prize (PNP) reminds us that sport is not only about records and medals, but also about Olympic values, perseverance, and dreams come true. Since its creation in 2011, the award has placed the spotlight on young talents who are already shining on international stages.

🏆 A legacy of champions
Among the names that have become part of the PNP’s history are athletes who went from promising prospects to global stars:

  • In 2023, Finland’s Minja Korhonen captured the 9th Winter Prize after dominating Nordic combined.
  • Earlier this year, Hungary’s Viviana Márton, a rising taekwondo star, won the Summer edition in Frankfurt, proving that Piotr Nurowski’s legacy inspires athletes as much on the mats as it does on the snow.

These examples show how the PNP has become a springboard to the elite, but above all, a recognition of the passion and Olympic spirit of young athletes.

🔥 The five finalists winning fans’ hearts

🇺🇦 Yaroslav Lavreniuk – Skeleton

At just 16, Lavreniuk has already become the youngest ever competitor in a Skeleton World Cup race. The Ukrainian lives each run with intensity: speed, ice, and courage. In St. Moritz he was crowned under-20 world champion, and at Gangwon 2024 he won silver, proving that talent has no age limits. His story inspires an entire nation in challenging times, showing that young athletes can be symbols of hope and resilience.

🇪🇸 Unai López Sousa – Snowboard

The Spaniard is one of those riders who bring freedom and creativity to every jump. Raised in the mountains, he spent more time on his board than on solid ground from a young age. At 17 he already boasts double gold at the 2025 EYOF and a strong record on the European circuit. Beyond his spectacular tricks, Unai is admired for his team spirit: always supporting his teammates and sharing his achievements with the wider snowboarding community.

🇩🇪 Finn Sonnekalb – Speed Skating

Methodical, perfectionist, and ambitious: Sonnekalb epitomises the blend of talent and German discipline. On the ice he is unstoppable: three golds, one silver, and two bronzes at the Junior World Championships, alongside the overall Junior World Cup title. At Gangwon 2024 he claimed three more gold medals, cementing his reputation as both a star of the present and the future. Yet behind his competitive edge lies a grounded character, dedicating his victories to his family and team – a reminder that success is never achieved alone.

🇮🇹 Flora Tabanelli – Freestyle Skiing

The Italian is pure inspiration in motion. At 17 she was crowned World Champion in big air and has already secured FIS Crystal Globes in both big air and park & pipe. But Flora is more than results: she has become a youth icon in Italy, described as the “girl who smiles in the air”. Her charisma, energy, and fearlessness have made her a role model for young skiers everywhere. Her secret? As she puts it: “Don’t overthink – let passion guide every jump.”

🇧🇬 Malena Zamfirova – Snowboard

At only 15, Malena is the youngest of the group, yet already making waves. Her first World Cup medal came with a surprise silver in Krynica, proving she can stand with the very best. At the Junior World Championships in Zakopane she shone again with one gold and two silver medals, confirming her status as a prodigy. In Bulgaria she is known as “the diamond of the ice” and, despite her age, she already carries the responsibility of inspiring a new generation in a country where winter sports are still growing.

🌟 A gala with an Olympic future
On 3 October in Malta, the National Olympic Committees will vote to decide the winner of the 10th Winter Piotr Nurowski Prize. But beyond who takes home the trophy, all five athletes are already part of a tradition that celebrates excellence and Olympic values.

And if the present is thrilling, the future promises even more: in less than six months, the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games will offer the perfect stage for many of these young talents to take the final step into the Olympic elite. The PNP makes one thing clear: the next generation is not only ready… they are here to shine on the world’s greatest sporting stage!

What Is Olympic Day? The Day Sport Moves the World

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in EOC, EYOF, GSSE, Olympic Movement, Skopje 2025, Sports, Summer Sports, Winter Sports. No Comments on What Is Olympic Day? The Day Sport Moves the World

Every year on 23rd June, Olympic Day is celebrated across the globe — and it goes far beyond sport. This day invites us to get active, connect with others, and live by the values that make the Olympic Games so unique: respect, friendship, and excellence.

But… do you really know what this day means and why it matters? Let us explain.

📅 What Is Olympic Day and Why Is It Celebrated?

Olympic Day marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern Olympic Games, first held in 1896 thanks to the vision of French educator Pierre de Coubertin. But it wasn’t until 1948 that the International Olympic Committee proposed creating a special day to celebrate Olympism — a day where everyone, no matter their age or background, could be part of the Olympic spirit.

Since then, more than 150 countries have joined the celebration each year, organising sporting events, cultural activities, educational workshops and fun runs known as “Olympic Day Runs”, open to the public.

🏃‍♀️🏀 More Than Sport: Move Your Body, Mind and Heart

Olympic Day is built on three key pillars that make it meaningful and accessible to all:

  • Move 🏃‍♂️
    Walk, run, swim, dance, play… however you like to move, get your body going. Being active improves your health, boosts your mood, and builds confidence.
  • Learn 📚
    Explore Olympic history, learn about inspiring athletes, and discover how sport unites cultures and breaks down barriers. Learning is part of the Olympic journey.
  • Discover 🧩
    Ever tried a new sport? Olympic Day is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and find something that excites you.

🎯 These three pillars are the foundation of the official Olympic Day motto: “Move, Learn, Discover.”

🌟 Olympic Values: A Guide for Life

Beyond medals and podiums, Olympic Day is about remembering the values that inspire athletes all over the world:

  • Friendship: Connecting with others through mutual respect and teamwork.
  • Respect: For yourself, for others, and for the environment.
  • Excellence: Giving your personal best — not just to win, but to grow.

These values go beyond sport. They can help us become better people at school, at home, and in our communities.

🎤 What Athletes Say

For many Olympians, Olympic Day has special meaning. Some remember it as the day they first discovered the joy of sport.

🗣️ “Olympic Day showed me that sport is for everyone — not just the best. We all have a place,” said Yulimar Rojas, Olympic champion.

🗣️ “When you run alongside others without worrying about who wins, you realise sport is bigger than competition,” shared Eliud Kipchoge, one of the greatest marathon runners in history.

🙌 How Can You Take Part?

The best part? Anyone can join Olympic Day, regardless of age, experience or fitness level. Here are a few simple ways to get involved:

  • 🚴‍♀️ Organise a mini Olympic Day run in your school, park or neighbourhood.
  • 🧠 Research Olympic athletes from your country and create a poster or presentation.
  • 🏸 Try out a new sport — even just for fun.
  • 📱 Join the online challenge: post a video of yourself moving or share your story using the hashtag #OlympicDay.
  • 🎨 Create artwork, music or dance inspired by Olympic values.
  • 💬 Invite a local athlete to speak at your school or youth centre.

🌈 It’s not about how big the event is — what matters most is your willingness to take part and connect with others through sport

The Final Countdown: Five Days to EYOF Bakuriani 2025 Start

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in Bakuriani 2025, EOC, EYOF, Sports, Winter Sports. No Comments on The Final Countdown: Five Days to EYOF Bakuriani 2025 Start

The stunning Georgian ski resort of Bakuriani is ready to welcome Europe’s finest young athletes as it plays host to the 2025 Winter European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF). Taking place from the 9th to the 16th of February, this prestigious event will see approximately 2,000 competitors, aged 14 to 18, from 48 European nations, competing across eight thrilling winter sports disciplines.

The festival’s sporting events will be staged across three key locations:

  • Bakuriani – The heart of the festival, hosting alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, freestyle skiing, and snowboarding.
  • Tbilisi – Ice hockey will be played at the Leader Arena in the Georgian capital.
  • Batumi – The Black Sea coastal city will showcase figure skating and short track speed skating at the newly developed Batumi Ice Arena.

The Girl’s Ice Hockey competition is going to be the first event to go live at the Festival, with preliminary games starting next Thursday, February 6th, in Tbilisi. Sweden, Finland, and Czechia are expected to be strong contenders for medals in the Girl’s competition. Meanwhile, Switzerland, Czechia, and Latvia are the teams to keep an eye on in the Boy’s event.

Athletes to Watch

Several promising young athletes are set to compete in Bakuriani 2025, each bringing remarkable talent and ambition to the event. For example, Zak Carrik Smiz (GBR), an exceptional apline skier. At the Gangwon 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games, Zak made history by becoming the first British skier to win a gold medal in an Olympic alpine skiing event. He achieved this milestone in the men’s combined event, where, after placing 27th in the Super-G, he delivered an extraordinary slalom run that propelled him to the top of the podium. In addition to his success in the combined event, Zak further showcased his talent by securing another gold medal in the men’s slalom event at the same Games, solidifying his position as one of Britain’s most promising young skiers.

A Stage for Future Champions

As the opening ceremony draws near, excitement is building among athletes, officials, and sports enthusiasts alike. The Winter EYOF Bakuriani 2025 promises not only to be a spectacular showcase of young talent but also a demonstration of Georgia’s rising stature in global winter sports.

Stay tuned for an unforgettable week of athletic excellence, camaraderie, and inspiring moments in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains.

The 2025 European Figure Skating Championships: A Showcase of Talent in Tallin

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in EOC, Sin categoría, Sports, Winter Sports. No Comments on The 2025 European Figure Skating Championships: A Showcase of Talent in Tallin

The 2025 European Figure Skating Championships are set to take place in the capital of Estonia, Tallinn, from January 28 to February 2, 2025. This marks a historic moment for the city, as it hosts the prestigious competition for the first time ever. The event will be held at the Tondiraba Ice Hall, a state-of-the-art venue known for its modern facilities and exceptional acoustics.

As the skating community gathers in Tallinn, excitement is building both among athletes and fans alike. The championship will showcase some of the world’s best figure skaters, competing for coveted medals in multiple categories, including Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Pairs, and Ice Dance.

Tallinn’s selection as the host city for this year’s championships is a significant milestone for Estonian figure skating. The city is buzzing with excitement, as fans are eager to witness top-tier performances from the world’s leading athletes. The Tondiraba Ice Hall, which will serve as the event’s main venue, offers a perfect backdrop for the competition, providing an atmosphere that is both intimate and thrilling.

Tallinn is hosting the 2025 European Figure Skating Championships for the second time. The city previously hosted the event in 2015, marking the first time Estonia had the honor of welcoming the European Championships.

Exciting Competitions Ahead

As the 2025 European Figure Skating Championships get underway, the competition promises to be fierce. Top skaters from all over Europe are set to compete for gold, silver, and bronze in their respective categories. The Men’s and Women’s Singles events are expected to be particularly thrilling, with fierce rivalries between established stars and rising talents.

The Pairs competition will showcase stunning synchrony, athleticism, and grace, as duos from across Europe demonstrate their technical skill and artistic expression. Meanwhile, the Ice Dance competition will be a true display of artistry, with couples bringing their passion and creativity to the ice in a highly anticipated battle for the gold medal.

A Platform for Future Olympic Stars

Beyond the European titles up for grabs, the 2025 Championships are also a key opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills as they prepare for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina. For many skaters, this competition serves as a critical stepping stone on their journey toward Olympic glory. The European Championships are known for providing a platform for skaters to prove their readiness for the highest level of international competition.

As the skaters take to the ice in Tallinn, the 2025 European Figure Skating Championships promise to be a celebration of the sport, bringing together fans and athletes in an unforgettable showcase of talent and artistry.

Photo:OIS/IOC

Ilona Plecháčová: Biathlon’s Brightest Young Talent

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in EOC, EYOF, Sports, Winter Sports. No Comments on Ilona Plecháčová: Biathlon’s Brightest Young Talent

Ilona Plecháčová, born on 26 December 2006, is promptly emerging as one of the brightest talents in the world of biathlon. Representing the Czech Republic, this young athlete has already carved out an impressive career, capturing the attention of sports enthusiasts and competitors alike. At just 18 years old, Plecháčová exemplifies determination, precision, and a knack for excelling under pressure.

Growing up in the picturesque landscapes of the Czech Republic, Ilona was introduced to winter sports at an early age. Her initial foray into skiing and shooting soon blossomed into a full-fledged passion for biathlon.

2024 marked a milestone year in Plecháčová’s career. During the Winter Youth Olympic Games in Gangwon, South Korea, she made history by winning the first biathlon gold medal for the Czech Republic. Competing in the individual event, her flawless shooting and consistent skiing ensured her place at the top of the podium. This historic victory not only highlighted her talent but also underscored her potential to dominate in senior-level competitions.

Her success continued later that year at the Junior Cup held in Jakuszyce, Poland. Competing in the women’s sprint event, Plecháčová secured a commanding victory, showcasing her impeccable shooting accuracy and tactical prowess on the course. With a perfect score in shooting, she demonstrated the mental fortitude and focus required to excel in this demanding sport.

Plecháčová’s performance statistics further solidify her reputation as a formidable athlete. According to data from the International Biathlon Union (IBU), she achieved a remarkable 96% accuracy in prone shooting and 70% in standing shooting during the 2024/2025 season. Her skiing efficiency, averaging +9.6 seconds per kilometre compared to the fastest competitors, reflects her technical expertise and physical conditioning.

Beyond her athletic prowess, Ilona Plecháčová is quickly becoming a role model for young athletes in her home country and beyond. Her dedication to the sport, combined with her humility and work ethic, resonates with fans and aspiring biathletes. By breaking records and overcoming challenges, she inspires others to pursue their dreams with the same passion and commitment.

Looking Ahead

As she transitions from youth to senior competitions, Plecháčová’s future in biathlon looks exceptionally promising. With the 2025 World Championships and future Olympic Games on the horizon, she stands poised to further cement her legacy. The biathlon community eagerly awaits her next performances, anticipating more record-breaking moments from this extraordinary athlete.

Ilona Plecháčová is not just a rising star in biathlon; she is a testament to what can be achieved with talent, hard work, and unyielding determination. As she continues her journey, the world will undoubtedly be watching closely, cheering her on every step of the way.

Flora Tabanelli: the Italian promise of freestyle skiing

Written by Daniel Pajuelo on . Posted in EOC, Sports, Winter Sports. No Comments on Flora Tabanelli: the Italian promise of freestyle skiing

The leader of the Women´s Park & Pipe overall standings in the World Cup this season is Flora Tabanelli, an Italian freestyle skier who has rapidly risen to prominence in the disciplines of Slopestyle and Big Air. Born in Bologna in 2007, Flora moved to Trentino at a young age to start pursuing a snowboarding career before focusing on freestyle skiing. She receives mentorship and support from Italian sports legend Alberto Tomba.

In January 2025, Flora claimed her first World Cup victory by winning the Women´s Freeski Big Air event in Kreischberg, Austria. This victory was preceded by a second-place finish in the Freeski Big Air World Cup in Klagenfurt, Austria, just one week earlier, earning enough points to top the overall standings in the competition.

In 2023, at the Junior World Championships in Cardrona, New Zealand, Flora won gold in Big Air and Silver in Slopestyle. Later that year, she achieved her firs World Cup podium, finishing third in the Big Air event in Beijing. At the Gangwon 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games, Flora returned home with tow gold medals in both Slopestyle and Big Air, further demonstrating her potential as a leading talent in freestyle skiing.

As Flora continues to make history, her focus remains firmly on the road ahead. With Milano-Cortina 2026 on the horizon, the world eagerly awaits to see what she will achieve next in her already outstanding career.

OISPHOTO/IOC

Daniel Tschofenig: A New Champion in the Four Hills Tournament of Ski Jumping

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in EOC, Sports, Winter Sports. No Comments on Daniel Tschofenig: A New Champion in the Four Hills Tournament of Ski Jumping

A Rising Star in Ski Jumping

Daniel Tschofenig, born on March 28, 2002, in Austria, has rapidly ascended the ranks in the world of ski jumping. Known for his remarkable talent and dedication, Tschofenig has achieved numerous milestones in his career. He became the first ski jumper born in the 21st century to stand on a World Cup podium, win a competition, and triumph in the prestigious Four Hills Tournament. His journey in ski jumping began at a young age, and he has consistently demonstrated his prowess on the slopes.


Daniel competed in the 2019 Winter EYOF in Sarajevo and East Sarajevo, and more recently in the 2023 European Games in Krakow-Malopolska, where he contributed to Austria’s success in ski jumping by winning two gold medals.

Tschofenig leading the podium in Bischofshofen (Reichert/NordicFocus, fis-ski.com)

The Four Hills Championship Victory

Daniel Tschofenig’s victory in the 2024/25 Four Hills Tournament marked a significant milestone for Austrian ski jumping. The tournament, held annually across four venues in Germany and Austria, is one of the most prestigious events in the sport. Tschofenig’s triumph ended a 10-year wait for an Austrian winner, making his victory even more special for his home country.


The final leg of the tournament took place in Bischofshofen, Austria, where Tschofenig delivered a stunning performance. After three events, he was in third place, trailing behind his compatriots Stefan Kraft and Jan Hoerl. However, Tschofenig’s spectacular second-round jump of 140 meters earned him 159.0 points, propelling him from fifth to first place with a combined score of 308.6 points.


A Historic Achievement


This victory is not only a personal triumph for Daniel, but also a historic achievement for Austrian ski jumping. It is only the third time in the 73-year history of the Four Hills Tournament that Austria has achieved a clean sweep of the podium. This victory positions Tschofenig and his teammates as strong contenders for future competitions, including the 2025 World Championships and the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Games.


In his own words, Tschofenig expressed his disbelief and joy at winning the tournament: “It is freaking unbelievable! I really don’t know what to say. The competition came and I just knew what I needed to do”. His determination and skill have undoubtedly made him a rising star in the world of ski jumping.


Upcoming Competitions


Following his triumph in the Four Hills Tournament, Daniel Tschofenig is set to compete in several key events. The next major competition for him is the Bergiselspringen in Innsbruck, Austria, which is part of the ongoing 2025 Vierschanzentournee. This event is crucial as it traditionally influences the outcomes for the overall competition. Additionally, Tschofenig will be preparing for the 2025 World Championships and the 2026 Olympic Games, where he aims to continue his impressive performances and bring more glory to Austrian ski jumping.