Corinne Stoddard and the Thrills of the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics
Day 6 of the 2026 Milan Cortina Games delivered a flurry of medal events, but Team USA’s Chloe Kim faced a stunning upset in the halfpipe final. Despite a strong performance, Kim settled for silver as seventeen-year-old Choi Gaon claimed gold with a dazzling 90.25 on her final run. Remarkably, Kim had mentored Gaon leading up to the Games, adding a layer of sportsmanship to the competition.
Controversy and Competition: Vladyslav Heraskevych’s Disqualification
The Games haven’t been without controversy. Skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych was initially disqualified by the IOC for continuing to wear a helmet commemorating Ukrainian athletes lost since Russia’s invasion. He has since filed an appeal, and the situation remains tense. His father was seen being consoled outside the venue, and Heraskevych himself expressed feeling “empty” in a text message to The Athletic.
The IOC released a statement explaining the decision, emphasizing that the issue wasn’t the message itself, but the location where it was displayed. The IOC maintained its desire for Heraskevych to compete but couldn’t compromise on the regulations.
On the Slopes and Ice: Key Events and Performances
Meanwhile, the USA and Canada kicked off their men’s hockey campaigns with decisive victories. Men’s snowboard cross seeding runs are underway at Livigno Snow Park, featuring veterans like Nick Baumgartner (44, five-time Olympian) and rising stars like Frenchman Loan Bozzolo and Canada’s Éliot Grondin, the 2025 World Champion. Australia’s Adam Lambert and Austria’s Alessandro Hämmerle are also contenders to watch.
On the Cortina track, American Austin Florian set a new start record in men’s skeleton but ultimately finished 12th. Britain’s Matt Weston currently leads the standings. The men’s skeleton event started without Heraskevych, whose name was initially omitted from the start list.
Medal Count and Rising Stars
Norway currently leads the medal count with seven gold and 13 total medals, largely thanks to skiing sensation Franjo von Allmen, who has already secured three gold medals. Italy is also performing well, particularly in luge. Team USA is surging, with recent medals won by Ryan Cochran-Siegle, Liz Lemley, Jaelin Kauf, Jordan Stolz, Madison Chock, and Evan Bates.
New Events and Ongoing Action
The Milan Cortina Games feature eight new events, adding to the excitement. These include new competitions in luge and other disciplines. The Games continue through February 22nd, with 19 days of competition and 116 gold medals to be awarded. You can follow the action on TV or stay tuned to The Athletic for comprehensive coverage and insightful analysis.
Don’t miss the ongoing action in ice hockey, figure skating, speed skating, and curling. Share your thoughts and predictions by emailing live@theathletic.com!
Stay tuned for more updates on Corinne Stoddard and all the excitement from the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics!
