Wed Feb 04 07:00:00 UTC 2026: # UAE and Other Nations Break Ice at 2026 Winter Olympics

The Story:
The 2026 Milano-Cortina d’Ampezzo Winter Olympics marks a significant shift in the global landscape of winter sports, with Benin, Guinea-Bissau, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) making their Winter Olympics debut. Notably, athletes from Russia and Belarus, previously barred from international competitions following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, are allowed to participate under the status of Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN). The UAE’s participation, in particular, underscores the evolving nature of winter sports as the country, despite its desert climate, has actively promoted winter sports within its borders.

Key Points:

  • The 2026 Winter Olympics sees the debut of Benin, Guinea-Bissau, and the UAE.
  • Russian and Belarusian athletes are participating as Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN).
  • The UAE has been working to promote winter sports domestically, joining the International Ski and Snowboard Federation in 2021.
  • The UAE is sending two skiers, Alexander Astrid and Fiera Hudson, to the Games. Hudson switched nationalities from New Zealand in June 2025.
  • Other Middle Eastern countries like Lebanon and Iran have a longer history of Winter Olympics participation due to mountainous terrain.
  • Israel will participate in bobsleigh, marking the first Middle Eastern country to compete in a track event.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 2026 Winter Olympics represent a broadening geographical scope of winter sports.
  • The UAE’s participation showcases the potential for winter sports development even in countries with warm climates.
  • Middle Eastern countries are increasingly investing in winter sports infrastructure and athlete development.
  • The participation of athletes from Russia and Belarus under a neutral flag highlights the complex intersection of sports and politics.
  • The evolution of Winter Olympics participation in the Middle East is moving beyond initial participation to include youth development programs.

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