Canada Projected to Win 26 Medals at Milan Cortina Winter Olympics

Canada Projected to Win 26 Medals at Milan Cortina Winter Olympics

The Canadian Press projects that Canada is set to secure 26 medals at the upcoming 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. The nation’s athletes are expected to excel primarily in speed skating and freestyle skiing, with the Games commencing on Friday with the opening ceremonies.

Canada’s Projected Medal Count

The forecast includes:

  • 7 Gold
  • 10 Silver
  • 9 Bronze

This projection follows Canada’s performance in previous Winter Olympics, where they achieved a total of 26 medals in Beijing 2022, comprised of 4 gold, 8 silver, and 14 bronze. During the 2018 Pyeongchang Games, Canada also brought home 29 medals—its highest total at a single Winter Olympics.

Medal Prospects by Sport

Alpine Skiing and Ski Cross

Canada is a strong contender in Alpine skiing and ski cross, often dubbed the “NASCAR on skis.” Notable athletes include Reece Howden, Kevin Drury, Brittany Phelan, and Marielle Thompson. Canadian women have successfully won ski cross medals in every Olympic Games since the sport debuted in 2010.

Curling

Since curling’s return to the Winter Olympics in 1998, Canada has consistently won at least one medal. With experienced teams facing heightened competition from Europe and Asia, the Canadian curlers are still expected to perform well, including Brett Gallant, who will also compete in mixed doubles.

  • 1 Gold
  • 1 Bronze

Figure Skating

Challenges persist for Canadian ice dancers Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier due to recent judging trends. The absence of Russian competitors may improve Canada’s chances, but pairs skaters Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps face uncertainty due to injury.

  • 1 Bronze

Freestyle Skiing

With a depth of talent, Canada is home to prominent athletes like moguls expert Mikaël Kingsbury. He will aim for a second medal in the dual moguls event, along with other talented freestyle skiers competing across various disciplines.

  • 1 Gold
  • 2 Silver
  • 2 Bronze

Hockey

NHL players return to the Olympics for the first time since Canada’s men’s hockey gold in Sochi 2014. A potential showdown with the United States in men’s hockey is highly anticipated. However, the U.S. currently holds the upper hand over Canada in women’s hockey.

  • 1 Gold
  • 1 Silver

Long-track Speedskating

Veteran skaters lead Canada’s efforts in long-track speed skating, with Isabelle Weidemann, Valerie Maltais, and Ivanie Blondin expected to defend their championship status.

  • 2 Silver
  • 2 Bronze

Short-track Speedskating

Known for its unpredictability, short-track speedskating features several medal prospects, including William Dandjinou, Steven Dubois, and Courtney Sarault.

  • 3 Gold
  • 2 Silver
  • 1 Bronze

Ski Jumping

Abigail Strate is anticipated to be a key competitor for Canada in women’s ski jumping, especially with the discipline making its Olympic debut.

  • 1 Bronze

Snowboarding

Despite challenges in the snowboard team due to injuries, athletes like Éliot Grondin and Mark McMorris remain focused on securing medals in slopestyle and big air events.

  • 1 Gold
  • 1 Silver
  • 1 Bronze

Overall Medal Predictions

Canada’s total is projected as follows:

  • 7 Gold
  • 10 Silver
  • 9 Bronze

As the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics approach, the Canadian team is poised for a strong showing.