2026 Winter Olympics Ski Jumping Preview

Last Updated on February 16, 2026 1:44 pm by Erwin Noguera

The Ski Jumping competition at Milano-Cortina 2026 promises to be one of the most technically demanding and visually spectacular events of the Winter Olympics Games. Set against the alpine backdrop of northern Italy, the world’s best jumpers will compete across multiple disciplines, combining explosive takeoff power, aerodynamic precision, and flawless landing execution in the pursuit of Olympic Gold.

With traditional European powerhouses, rising Japanese talent, and a resurgent Slovenian squad in the mix, the 2026 edition is shaping up to be highly competitive. Moreover, the return of mixed team events continues to highlight the depth of national programs and adds strategic complexity to the pursuit of medals.

Ski Jumping at the Winter Olympics features five medal events: Men’s individual Normal Hill, Men’s Individual Large Hill, Women’s Individual Normal Hill, Men’s Team Large Hill, and Mixed Team Normal Hill.

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Ski Jumping Men’s Individual Normal and Large Hill

The men’s field is loaded with elite talent, led by the defending Olympic champion Ryoyu Kobayashi, who claimed gold in both individual events at the Beijing 2022 Olympics. Kobayashi’s explosive in-run speed and stable flight position make him a perennial favorite on both hills.

Slovenia counters with Anže Lanišek, whose consistency in World Cup competitions has positioned him as a legitimate gold medal contender.Meanwhile, Germany’s technical precision remains anchored by Andreas Wellinger, a proven Olympic performer with strong large hill credentials.

Poland’s experienced veteran Kamil Stoch cannot be overlooked, especially in high-pressure championship settings where his composure historically stands out.

Wind management and landing quality are key to success, especially on the large hill. Small style deductions can separate gold from bronze easily.

Normal Hill Podium Pick:

Large Hill Podium Pick:

Ski Jumping Women’s Individual Normal Hill

Women’s ski Jumping continues its rapid evolution, with depth and scoring margins tightening significantly since its Olympic debut.

Austria’s Eve Pinkelnig enters Milano-Cortina as one of the most consistent performers on tour. However, Germany’s Katharina Schmid brings championship experience and strong flight mechanics that translate well to Olympic Hills.

Slovenia’s Nika Križnar, the Beijing 2022 gold medalist, remains a major threat thanks to her refined takeoff timing and efficient aerodynamic posture.
Women’s Individual Normal Hill Podium Pick

Ski Jumping Mixed Team Large Hill

The Mixed team event has quickly become one of the most exciting formats in Olympic Ski Jumping. Nations must balance male and female jumpers strategically, emphasizing overall depth rather than individual star power.

Slovenia and Germany have demonstrated exceptional cohesion in recent World Cup events, while Japan’s balanced lineup gives them a strong medal potential.

Because each athlete jumps twice, consistency across all four competitors determines success. One weak jump can instantly eliminate hopes.

Mixed Team Podium Pick:

Ski Jumping Men’s Team Large Hill

Historically, team competitions favor nations with structured development systems and technical discipline.

Germany, Slovenia, Austria, and Norway are traditional medal contenders. Austria’s synchronized in-run speeds and Slovenia’s aggressive flight style could create a compelling showdown if conditions remain stable.

Team events often produce dramatic swings, particularly if wind compensation factors alter scoring patterns between rounds.

Men’s Team Large Hill Podium Pick