What makes the Milan Cortina Winter Games the most gender-balanced?

The Milan Cortina Winter Games are considered the most gender-balanced due to significant changes in the competition schedule, including new events and increased participation for women.

What new sports are debuting at the Milan Cortina Winter Games?

Ski mountaineering, also known as 'skimo,' is making its Olympic debut at the Milan Cortina Winter Games, featuring events like sprints and a mixed-gender relay.

Are there new ski jumping events for women at the 2026 Games?

Yes, women will compete on the large hill in ski jumping for the first time at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games.

Home / Sports / Winter Games Go Gender-Balanced: History Made

Winter Games Go Gender-Balanced: History Made

4 Feb

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Summary

Milan Cortina Winter Games will be the most gender-balanced Olympics ever.
New events include women's large hill ski jumping and mixed-gender skimo.
Ski mountaineering, a new sport, features climbing and skiing challenges.

Winter Games Go Gender-Balanced: History Made

The Milan Cortina Winter Games, officially opening on Friday, are being hailed as the most gender-balanced in Olympic history. This focus on equality is evident in the updated competition schedule, featuring new events and expanded participation for women.

Ski mountaineering, making its Olympic debut on February 19, will include sprint events and a mixed-gender relay. This sport, also known as 'skimo,' involves athletes climbing mountains and skiing down, described as a return to skiing's roots before the era of chairlifts.

Several other sports are introducing new events or formats. Women will compete on the large hill in ski jumping for the first time, while luge adds a women's doubles event. Freestyle skiing introduces dual moguls for both men and women. Skeleton will also feature a mixed team event, combining the scores of male and female athletes.