The upcoming 2026 Winter Olympic Games in northern Italy are set to kick off in exactly 100 days, starting with the opening ceremony at 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):** Dandjinou, standing at six-foot-three, dominated the short track scene last season, clinching the overall title and a gold medal in the 1,500 meters at the world championships. With a stellar performance this season, he is poised for a strong Olympic debut.
2. **Rachel Homan (curling):** Homan’s curling team is on a winning streak, securing back-to-back world championships and both Grand Slam titles this season. With their eyes set on the Olympic gold, they are the team to beat in Milan.
3. **Connor McDavid (hockey):** The NHL superstar is aiming for Olympic glory alongside other NHL players returning to the Games after a long hiatus. With a stellar track record, McDavid is determined to add an Olympic gold to his impressive list of achievements.
4. **Marie-Philip Poulin (hockey):** Poulin, a veteran in the Canadian women’s hockey team, is gearing up for her fifth Olympics. Known for her clutch performances, she is a key player in Canada’s quest for gold.
5. **Mikaël Kingsbury (freestyle skiing):** Kingsbury, a mogul skiing legend, is eyeing his fourth consecutive double gold at the Olympics. With an impressive record of victories, he is a strong contender for the podium in Milan.
6. **Ivanie Blondin (long track speed skating):** Blondin, a top medal winner in recent world championships, is a force to be reckoned with in speed skating. With a remarkable performance last season, she is a frontrunner for Olympic success.
7. **Jack Crawford (alpine skiing):** Crawford made history with a significant win at the Kitzbühel downhill race and has proven himself as a rising star in alpine skiing. With a bronze at the 2022 Olympics, he is set to make an impact in Milan.
8. **Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier (figure skating):** This ice dance duo has consistently impressed at world championships and is aiming for a podium finish in Milan. With tough competition ahead, they are ready to showcase their talent on the Olympic stage.
9. **Éliot Grondin (snowboard cross):** Grondin, a rising star in snowboard cross, has secured multiple titles and is a top contender in his event. With a strong track record, he is expected to shine at the Olympics.
10. **Reece Howden (ski cross):** Howden, leading the charge in ski cross, is part of a strong Canadian team aiming for medals in Italy. With his impressive victories, he is a top prospect for Olympic success.
These Canadian athletes are gearing up for the ultimate test at the 2026 Winter Olympics, and all eyes will be on them as they strive for glory on the world stage.