A group of Canadian Olympians has embarked on their journey to Northern Italy for the Milan Cortina Winter Games after a vibrant send-off event held on Thursday night at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport. This gathering celebrated the athletes and their commitment to representing Canada on an international stage.
Among the notable athletes departing were members of the Canadian women's hockey team, including team captain Marie-Philip Poulin, as well as representatives from the alpine skiing team. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as the athletes arrived at the terminal with their suitcases, ready to board their international flight.
Canada's delegation for the Milan Cortina Games consists of an impressive 207 athletes, which includes 109 first-time Olympians. This significant number reflects the opportunity for new talent to showcase their skills at a global event. Freestyle skier Naomi Urness, a 21-year-old hailing from Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, is among those debuting at the Olympics. She expressed her enthusiasm for experiencing the Olympic Village and eagerly anticipated the opportunity to exchange pins with fellow competitors once she arrives in Italy.
The opening ceremonies for the Milan Cortina Winter Games are scheduled for February 6, 2026. The festivities will take place across several locations, including Milan, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Predazzo, and Livigno. Notably, moguls skier Mikaël Kingsbury and ski cross racer Marielle Thompson have been designated as Canada’s flag-bearers during this ceremonial event, symbolizing Canadian pride and unity as they represent their country on such a prestigious platform.
The Olympics will conclude with the closing ceremonies, taking place on February 22, 2026. This monumental event will mark the end of a celebration of athleticism and sportsmanship, drawing thousands of fans and participants to witness the culmination of intense competition across various winter sports.
The atmosphere surrounding the Canadian athletes is one of optimism and determination, as they look forward to competing on this grand international stage. Their participation not only highlights their personal achievements but also reflects the dedication and support of their coaches, families, and Canadian sports organizations. With a blend of seasoned Olympians and novice competitors, the Canadian team is poised to leave a remarkable mark on the Milan Cortina Winter Games.
