Michigan Athletes to Compete at 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics
The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics will feature several exceptional athletes with strong connections to Michigan. This state’s winter sports culture has fostered numerous talented competitors across various disciplines. Here’s a closer look at some Michiganders representing the U.S. and other nations in this prestigious event.
Michigan Hockey Athletes at the Olympics
- Dylan Larkin (Waterford)
- Connor Hellebuyck (Commerce)
- Jack Hughes (Canton)
- Quinn Hughes (Canton)
- Zach Werenski (Grosse Pointe Woods)
- Kyle Connor (Shelby Township)
Dylan Larkin, captain of the Detroit Red Wings, brings significant international experience as he competes for Team USA. Connor Hellebuyck, a standout goalie, is essential for Team USA, having received the Vezina Trophy multiple times. Jack and Quinn Hughes, both accomplished NHL players, are also key members of the U.S. roster. Zach Werenski and Kyle Connor add to the strong representation from Michigan in men’s hockey.
Women’s Hockey Representation
- Kirsten Simms (Plymouth)
- Megan Keller (Farmington Hills)
Kirsten Simms, a talented young player, made her mark by helping her collegiate team win a national title. Megan Keller, an Olympic champion from 2018, has a successful college and international hockey career. Both players symbolize the strength of Michigan’s women in the sport.
Figure Skating and Ice Dance Contenders
- Madison Chock and Evan Bates (Ann Arbor)
- Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko (St. Clair)
- Emila Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik (Grosse Pointe Farms)
Madison Chock and Evan Bates are a celebrated ice dance duo with numerous championships. Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko are top competitors, while Emila Zingas, with her partner Vadym Kolesnik, achieved impactful victories in the ISU competitions. These athletes showcase Michigan’s presence in the figure skating world.
Freeskiing and Snowboarding Stars
- Kaila Kuhn (Boyne City)
- Nick Baumgartner (Iron River)
- Jake Vedder (Pinckney)
Kaila Kuhn excels in aerials skiing, having won multiple medals at the World Championships. Nick Baumgartner, a seasoned veteran, achieved Olympic gold in 2022. Jake Vedder has made a name for himself in snowboard cross, completing an impressive career trajectory.
Other Michigan Athletes to Watch
- Jasmine Jones (Bobsleigh)
- Deedra Irwin (Biathlon)
- Zak Ketterson (Cross-Country Skiing)
These athletes represent a variety of winter sports disciplines. Jasmine Jones transitioned from track and field to bobsleigh, while Deedra Irwin has become a top competitor in biathlon. Zak Ketterson earned accolades for his skiing at the collegiate level and made his World Cup debut.
International Athletes with Michigan Ties
- Moritz Seider (Germany, Men’s Hockey)
- Lucas Raymond (Sweden, Men’s Hockey)
- Alex Petan (Italy, Men’s Hockey)
Several international athletes have roots in Michigan. Moritz Seider and Lucas Raymond represent Germany and Sweden, respectively. Alex Petan made a mark with Italy at the IIHF Championships. These players enhance the Olympic spirit by showcasing Michigan’s influence worldwide.
As the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics approach, these athletes embody the dedication and talent fostered in Michigan’s winter sports community. Their participation underscores the state’s vital role in the global winter sports arena.
