Nathan Pare Disqualified After Thrilling Olympic Snowboarding Comeback Win

American snowboarder Nathan Pare experienced a thrilling comeback at the 2026 Milan Cortina Games. However, his victory was short-lived due to a disqualification following a minor collision in the Men’s Snowboard Cross quarterfinals.

Nathan Pare’s Dramatic Olympic Comeback

During the quarterfinals, Pare faced off against competitors Lucas Eguibar Breton from Spain, Jonas Chollet, and Loan Bozzolo from France. Starting the race in last place, Pare fought hard to gain ground. As the race progressed, he attempted to overtake Breton once more.

The Collision Incident

While maneuvering to pass Breton, Pare’s snowboard contacted the back of Breton’s. This contact caused Breton to lose control and crash. Just before crossing the finish line, Pare managed to surpass Chollet and Bozzolo, who had maintained the lead throughout the race.

Disqualification and Controversy

After what seemed like a victory, the excitement turned to uncertainty as race officials deliberated on the incident. Ultimately, they ruled that Pare’s contact with Breton constituted illegal interference. According to Olympic snowboard cross rules, disqualification occurs only if interference is deemed intentional, which led to an outcry from commentators.

• Event: Men’s Snowboard Cross Quarterfinals
• Date: February 12, 2026
• Disqualified Competitor: Nathan Pare (USA)
• Competitors:
  • Lucas Eguibar Breton (Spain)
  • Jonas Chollet (France)
  • Loan Bozzolo (France)
• Final Standings:
  • 1st: Jonas Chollet (France)
  • 2nd: Loan Bozzolo (France)
  • 4th: Jonas Chollet in final

Reactions to the Decision

Following the disqualification, Pare expressed visible frustration, a sentiment echoed by NBC’s analyst Lindsey Jacobellis. A three-time Olympic medalist, she stated, “I don’t agree with that call. To me, that’s boardercross racing.” This incident highlights not only the excitement of Olympic snowboard cross but also the fine line between competition and rule enforcement.

Despite his disqualification, Nathan Pare’s attempt to battle from the back to the front of the competition retains a significant place in the story of the 2026 Winter Olympics. His journey showcases the intense nature of snowboard cross racing and the challenges athletes face on their quest for Olympic glory.