Mikaela Shiffrin Faces Challenges Ahead of 2026 Winter Olympics
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Two-time Olympic gold medalist Mikaela Shiffrin reveals she is not currently at her peak performance level as she gears up for the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup season. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Shiffrin shared her thoughts just a week before the start of the season on October 25. Despite her past successes, including claiming her 101st World Cup win in the previous season, Shiffrin acknowledges that she is not at her “winning speed” as she prepares for the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina in 2026.
Following a life-threatening injury sustained during a ski crash at the Stifel Killington Cup in Vermont last November, Shiffrin underwent surgery to address an abdominal puncture wound caused by hitting a gate on the course. Her recovery process was intense, focusing on both physical rehabilitation and mental strength. Shiffrin’s return to competitive skiing has been marked by achievements, but she admits that there is still room for improvement in both technical skills and mental readiness.
Despite facing challenges on her journey back to peak performance, Shiffrin remains optimistic and dedicated to her craft. She emphasises the importance of continuous improvement and acknowledges that her current speed may not be at a winning level, attributing it to ongoing technical refinements rather than nerves. Shiffrin’s balanced approach to competition includes embracing pre-race jitters as a sign of care and commitment to her sport.
Shiffrin also opens up about managing PTSD symptoms stemming from her past crash and how she has incorporated those experiences into her training regimen leading up to the new season. With a focus on mental processing speed and precision, Shiffrin is dedicated to honing her skills in preparation for the upcoming Winter Olympics. Her journey towards Olympic qualification will be documented on Making Team USA, providing fans with an inside look at her training and competition experiences.
As part of the Xfinity team supporting Team USA athletes, Shiffrin underscores the importance of connectivity and support while competing on the global stage. The partnership with Xfinity offers financial assistance to athletes, ensuring they can stay connected with loved ones and fans during the intense competition period. With three Olympic medals already to her name, Shiffrin’s sights are set on further success at the upcoming Winter Games in Milan-Cortina.
As Shiffrin prepares to kick off her season at the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup opener in Sölden, Austria, she remains focused on her goals and determined to push herself to new heights in the sport. Her dedication to continuous improvement and unwavering commitment to her craft serve as a testament to her resilience and passion for alpine skiing. With the Winter Olympics just a few months away, fans can expect to witness Shiffrin’s unwavering determination on the slopes as she vies for Olympic glory.