French Snowboard Cross Team Faces Aerodynamics Challenge at 2026 Olympics: “It’s Horrible”
In an unexpected turn during the Snowboard Cross finals, Aïdan Chollet of France found himself leading the competition. The event took place on February 12, 2026, in Livigno, Italy. As he approached the final turn, it appeared victory was within reach. However, the dynamics of the race changed dramatically.
2026 Olympic Snowboard Cross Finals Overview
Chollet’s lead evaporated as he was overtaken by his competitors in the closing moments. This was largely due to the aerodynamic phenomenon known as draft, which can give athletes an edge in the final stretch. The conclusion of the race was disheartening for the young French athlete.
Results of the Final Race
- Gold Medal: Alessandro Haemmerle (Austria)
- Silver Medal: Eliot Grondin (Canada)
- Bronze Medal: Jakob Dusek (Austria)
Chollet, who is just 21 years old, finished in fourth place. His teammates also faced disappointment, as Loan Bozzolo, a 26-year-old world vice-champion, came in fifth. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Jonas Chollet, Aïdan’s younger brother, secured sixth place.
Reaction and Future Prospects
Aïdan Chollet expressed his frustration with the outcome, stating, “It’s horrible.” His coach, Kevin Strucl, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the effort put forth by the French team. “The guys showed beautiful things, and they deserved a better outcome,” he said. Despite the challenging results, Strucl emphasized the importance of resilience in the sport.
The French team will look to address the aerodynamics challenges they faced during the race as they prepare for future competitions. The experience gained at the 2026 Olympics will undoubtedly inform their strategies moving forward.
