It’s finally time for the 2026 Winter Games, and history is being made on ice and snow. There will be more out queer athletes at the Milano Cortina Olympics than have ever competed at the Winter Games before. After a record-breaking 193 out athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics, representation remains strong this winter. According to Outsports, Team USA and Team Canada lead the way, with nearly 3% of the American team identifying as LGBTQ+.
Viewers will see queer athletes across major events — including couples competing together, rivals facing off, and trailblazers redefining what Olympic visibility looks like. For Team USA, that includes women’s hockey legend Hilary Knight, a five-time Olympian with one gold and three silvers, alongside teammates Alex Carpenter, a two-time silver medalist, and Cayla Barnes, who first made history as Team USA’s youngest Olympic player.
In speed skating, Olympic newcomers meet veterans with Conor McDermott-Mostowy making his debut and Brittany Bowe, a four-time Olympian and world record holder, returning as a medal favorite. Figure skating history is made as Amber Glenn becomes the first out queer woman to compete in U.S. women’s singles. Alpine skier Breezy Johnson finally hits the Olympic slopes after missing 2022 due to injury, while snowboarder Maddy Schaffrick completes a powerful comeback after a decade away. For queer fans, this Winter Games isn’t just about medals — it’s about visibility. Let the games begin.
