Bormio transforms into a different challenge in February compared to its conditions in December. The men’s alpine ski course slated for the 2026 Olympic Games is a familiar venue on the World Cup circuit. Canadian skiers have historically excelled in the December downhills on the Stelvio slope, known for its 1,010-meter vertical drop and speeds reaching 100 kilometers per hour, offering a nerve-wracking experience.
Cam Alexander, a podium finisher in Bormio’s recent downhills, described the track as one of the most daunting on the circuit, requiring constant focus due to its unrelenting intensity. His teammate Brodie Seger added that the course is physically demanding, particularly taxing on the legs by the end.
The upcoming Olympic men’s downhill event will feature three training runs, with the race scheduled for Saturday, marking the first alpine ski medals of the 2026 Games in Milan and Cortina, Italy. Canada has seen success in men’s downhill, with bronze medalists Steve Podborski in 1980 and Edi Podivinsky in 1994. Jack Crawford, a bronze medalist in alpine combined in Beijing 2022, aims to make his mark on the Bormio track, having achieved a World Cup silver there.
Coach John Kucera, a former world downhill champion, expressed confidence in Canada’s speed team, anticipating strong performances in downhill and super-G events at the Olympics. The team is familiar with Bormio’s challenges in December but recognizes the different dynamics the course presents in February.
Expectations are high for Canadian skiers like North Vancouver’s Seger, who has been steadily climbing back to top form following a knee injury. Looking ahead to the Games, he is eager for another opportunity to compete on the Olympic stage. Calgary’s Jeff Read, inspired by past experiences, aims to showcase his best performance and seize the moment at the upcoming super-G event.
As the excitement builds towards the Olympics, Canadian skiers like Crawford and Alexander are determined to make their mark, with aspirations of clinching medals and achieving personal milestones at the prestigious sporting event.
