Snowboarding at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics is shaping up to be a showcase of athleticism and innovation. With the United States already dominating the medal table, fans are eager to see whether the U.S. star Chloe Kim can secure a third consecutive gold. The event lineup features 11 medal events across five disciplines, including the return of the mixed team snowboard cross.
At a Glance
- The U.S. leads the medal table with 35 total medals, 17 of them gold.
- Chloe Kim, 25, is targeting a third straight gold in the halfpipe.
- The Games will run from Feb. 5 to Feb. 18, 2026.
- Venue: Livigno Snow Park in Upper Valtellina.
- Why it matters: The U.S. advantage sets a high bar for other nations, and the expanded program offers more opportunities for athletes to shine.
Evolution of Olympic Snowboarding
Snowboarding made its Olympic debut in 1998 and has since expanded in scope and popularity. The halfpipes have grown larger, new events such as big air and slopestyle have been added, and the sport’s visibility has surged worldwide.
2026 Olympic Program
The 2026 program includes five disciplines:
- Halfpipe – freestyle, judged.
- Slopestyle – freestyle, judged.
- Big Air – freestyle, judged.
- Snowboard Cross – racing, first across the line wins.
- Parallel Giant Slalom – racing, head-to-head.
Each discipline has a men’s and women’s event, and snowboard cross also hosts a mixed team event that debuted in 2022.
Medal Breakdown
| Discipline | Men’s | Women’s | Mixed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Halfpipe | ✔ | ✔ | – |
| Slopestyle | ✔ | ✔ | – |
| Big Air | ✔ | ✔ | – |
| Snowboard Cross | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Parallel Giant Slalom | ✔ | ✔ | – |
Total medal events: 11.
Competition Schedule
The schedule spans two weeks, with each discipline allocated specific dates:
| Discipline | Start | End |
|---|---|---|
| Big Air | Feb. 5 | Feb. 9 |
| Parallel Giant Slalom | Feb. 8 | Feb. 8 |
| Halfpipe | Feb. 11 | Feb. 13 |
| Snowboard Cross | Feb. 12 | Feb. 15 |
| Slopestyle | Feb. 16 | Feb. 18 |
These dates are subject to change. Check the official schedule for updates.
Livigno: The Venue
Livigno, located in Upper Valtellina, will host all snowboarding and freestyle skiing events. Each discipline will have its own course within the Livigno Snow Park, designed to meet the technical requirements of the Olympic committee.
Key Athletes to Watch
- Chloe Kim – Two-time Olympic gold medalist, aiming for a historic third gold. The 25-year-old hails from Long Beach, California.
- Ester Ledecká – Czech dual-star competing in both slopestyle and big air, known for her versatility.
- Scotty James – Australian rising medalist, expected to challenge the top contenders.
- Other notable competitors include athletes from Switzerland, Canada, and Japan, all vying for podium spots.
Historical Context
The U.S. currently leads the medal table with 35 medals, including 17 golds, 21 more than the second-place nation, Switzerland. This record advantage underscores the depth of talent in the American squad.
What Makes 2026 Unique
The inclusion of a mixed team snowboard cross event adds a new dynamic, encouraging collaboration across genders and nations. Additionally, the expanded program means more athletes can compete for medals, raising the overall competitiveness of the Games.
Athlete Profiles
Chloe Kim
Kim’s career is highlighted by her dominance in the halfpipe. She has consistently pushed the boundaries of the sport, and her musical pursuits add a creative dimension to her profile.
Ester Ledecká
Ledecká’s dual-discipline expertise sets her apart. Her ability to transition between slopestyle and big air showcases a rare skill set that could lead to multiple medals.
Scotty James
James’ recent rise in the medal standings signals a promising future. His performances in recent World Cup events have positioned him as a strong contender.
Training and Preparation
Athletes are focusing on altitude training in Livigno’s high-altitude environment to acclimate to the conditions. Coaches emphasize technical precision and consistency, especially in judged events where small errors can be costly.
Fan Engagement
The 2026 Games are expected to attract a global audience. Live broadcasts will cover all 11 medal events, and interactive platforms will allow fans to track athlete progress in real time.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics promise an exciting chapter in snowboarding history. With the United States’ strong lead, the return of mixed events, and a venue designed for optimal performance, the Games are set to deliver memorable moments for athletes and fans alike.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. leads with 35 medals, 17 golds.
- Chloe Kim targets a third straight gold in the halfpipe.
- 11 medal events across five disciplines, including a mixed team snowboard cross.
- Livigno Snow Park will host all events.
- The competition runs from Feb. 5 to Feb. 18, 2026.
