Top 19 Storylines to Watch from NPR

The upcoming Winter Olympics set to take place in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo promise engaging storylines for fans and athletes alike. Various events spanning over 2 1/2 weeks will highlight both established stars and emerging athletes, each competing across 16 sports. As the games unfold, notable narratives are set to capture audiences worldwide.

Top 19 Storylines to Watch at the Winter Olympics

1. Legendary Comebacks

American athletes, particularly women, are making notable returns to the Olympic scene. Lindsey Vonn, the most successful female skier in history, attempted a comeback at 41, despite suffering a knee injury prior to the games.

• Alysa Liu, a figure skater, comes back after reversing her retirement.
• Maddy Schaffrick earns her first Olympic spot in halfpipe snowboarding at age 31.
• Breezy Johnson seeks redemption on the same slopes that previously hindered her Olympic journey.

2. High Geopolitical Tensions

U.S. athletes may encounter elevated political pressures during these games. Incidents involving U.S. diplomatic policies and security measures have created an atmosphere of cautious awareness as the Olympic games near.

3. NHL Stars Make Their Olympic Debut

The return of NHL players marks a significant development in Olympic hockey. Notable players such as Connor Hellebuyck and the Tkachuk brothers will finally represent the USA. This year’s competition lacks a Russian team due to geopolitical tensions stemming from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

4. Introduction of Ski Mountaineering

This Winter Games will showcase ski mountaineering as a new event, where athletes will race up and downhill. American athletes Anna Gibson and Cameron Smith will represent the U.S. in this inaugural Olympic discipline.

5. New Faces in U.S. Curling

The U.S. curling teams bring a fresh roster to the games this year. John Shuster, a long-time star, is absent as Gen-Z curlers step in, led by 24-year-old Danny Casper.

6. Mikaela Shiffrin’s Pursuit of Olympic Glory

Champion skier Mikaela Shiffrin aims to overshadow her previous Olympic disappointments as she targets a comeback. Following a serious injury, she has returned to form, dominating in World Cup slalom races.

7. Logistical Challenges for a Widespread Olympics

Organizers describe the 2026 Winter Games as the most geographically expansive, covering around 8,495 square miles. The ceremonies will convene across multiple locations, including a unique two-cauldron lighting initiative.

8. Aiming for Biathlon History

Team USA has yet to win a medal in biathlon, but Deedra Irwin and newcomer Campbell Wright represent hopes for a breakthrough this year. Their past performances highlight competitive potential.

9. The Return of Spectators

For the first time since the pandemic, in-person audiences will cheer for athletes in person. This excites competitors eager for the electric atmosphere of a live audience.

10. Environmental Concerns

Environmentalists express concern regarding the Olympics’ impact on Italy’s UNESCO-protected Dolomites. Critiques target the resources needed for artificial snow production amid climate change challenges.

11. Navigating Doping Wars

The shadow of doping scandals looms over the games, raising questions about athlete integrity. The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency emphasizes the importance of reform within oversight organizations.

12. U.S. Figure Skaters Target Historic Wins

The American figure skating team, nicknamed the “Blade Angels,” has high expectations as they aim for gold, hoping to return to the top of the podium in women’s singles.

13. Climbing the Medal Count

After finishing fifth in the medal count at the last Olympics, the U.S. aims for improved performance, with a specific focus on historical underperformances in events like skiing.

14. Bobsled Moms on the Rise

In a groundbreaking display of perseverance, bobsledders Kaillie Humphries and Elana Meyers-Taylor return as competitive moms. Both women aim for medals, showcasing the triumphs and challenges of motherhood.

15. U.S. Men in Cross-Country Skiing

U.S. men target their first cross-country skiing medal in decades. Gus Schumacher leads the charge, with a promising World Cup season fueling hopes for a historic achievement.

16. Snowboarding for Three-Peats

Chloe Kim headlines a competitive field as she endeavors to make history with a third consecutive Olympic gold in halfpipe snowboarding, amidst stiff competition from other elite athletes.

17. Strong U.S. Speedskating Team

The U.S. speedskating team, featuring Erin Jackson, is regarded as one of the strongest in years. With a mix of experienced and emerging athletes, they aim to shine in various events.

18. Competing Under Neutral Flags

Despite the absence of many Russian athletes due to international sanctions, a select few will compete under neutral status. This may have implications for competitive dynamics across several sports.

19. Gender Parity in Cross-Country Ski Events

For the first time, women’s cross-country skiers will race equal distances as their male counterparts. This landmark achievement reflects ongoing efforts for gender equity in sports.

As the Winter Olympics unfold in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, these narratives promise an exciting and complex experience for athletes and fans alike, setting the stage for memorable performances and historic moments.