The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee has unveiled its roster for the upcoming 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, featuring a total of 232 athletes. The team includes a remarkable age range, from 15-year-old freeskier Abby Winterberger to 54-year-old curler Rich Ruohonen, making him the oldest American to compete in Winter Olympics history.
On February 6, 2026, the opening ceremony will take place in Milan, with early events starting on February 4. This edition of the Winter Games marks a historic moment as the first Winter Olympics to be held across multiple locations, with Milan hosting sports such as hockey, figure skating, and speed skating, while Cortina and other mountain clusters will accommodate skiing, snowboarding, and biathlon events.
Among the 232 athletes, there are seven notable veterans, including Olympic skiing legend Lindsey Vonn, and accomplished bobsledders Kaillie Humphries and Elana Meyers Taylor, all making their fifth Olympic appearances. They join a select group of athletes who have proven their mettle on the world stage, with Meyers Taylor leading a contingent of 33 returning medalists. She boasts a remarkable collection of five Olympic medals—three silver and two bronze—while Humphries has secured three golds.
The roster features an even split of 117 men and 115 women, showcasing the depth and talent within Team USA. In addition to the veterans, the team includes promising newcomers like Winterberger, who will be making her Olympic debut. Ruohonen, a personal injury attorney from Minnesota, will also experience his first Winter Games, highlighting the diverse backgrounds of this year’s athletes.
As the Games approach, the excitement surrounding the events is palpable, with millions expected to tune in. The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee CEO Sarah Hirshland praised the athletes, stating, “This is a group of extraordinary athletes whose commitment, perseverance, and spirit reflect the very best of Team USA.”
With only a few months until the opening ceremony, the anticipation for the 2026 Winter Olympics continues to build. Fans and supporters are eager to witness the remarkable achievements of these athletes as they strive for Olympic glory in Italy.
