Renowned sports journalist Ariel Helwani was initially taken aback when approached by CBC for an Olympic assignment, feeling it might be a joke. The opportunity arose after his discussions with NBC, the American Games rights holder. The Montreal native, aged 43, chose to work with CBC for the Paris Olympics in 2024, declining any NBC offers. Now, he returns as a special contributor for his first Winter Olympics experience at the Milano-Cortina Games.
Helwani expressed excitement at showcasing his versatility in covering different stories and sports, reflecting on his successful stint in Paris. He eagerly accepted the invitation to return for the 2026 Games. Alongside Helwani, prominent figures like figure skater Elladj Baldé, hurdler/bobsledder Phylicia George, and sportscasters Cabral (Cabbie) Richards and Donnovan Bennett are also contributing to CBC’s coverage across various platforms.
His feature interviews with notable athletes like Sidney Crosby, snowboarder Cam Spalding, and freestyle skier Maia Schwinghammer have been well-received. Helwani will be stationed in Livigno, Italy, during the Games, where he will delve into more Olympic narratives and host a nightly digital show.
CBC Sports executive director Chris Wilson praised Helwani’s interviewing skills, noting his unique approach that stems from curiosity and attentive listening. Helwani’s extensive background in combat sports journalism, spanning various media outlets, has positioned him as a versatile and respected figure in the industry.
Known for hosting “The Ariel Helwani Show,” a popular podcast and video series, Helwani views this opportunity as a chance to expand his horizons beyond combat sports journalism. He aims to be recognized as a top-tier sports journalist, leveraging his distinctive interview style and broad sports knowledge to engage with subjects effectively.
Helwani’s relaxed and conversational interviewing style has proven effective in building connections with athletes and eliciting insightful responses. Despite the demanding schedule of the Games, he remains enthusiastic about making a meaningful impact through his work and reaching new audiences.
