**Jamaican Bobsled Team Credits ‘Cool Runnings’ for Steady Global Fandom Ahead of 2026 Winter Olympics**
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As the Jamaica national bobsled team readies itself for the 2026 Winter Olympics, the enduring legacy of the beloved 1993 film “Cool Runnings” continues to play a pivotal role in shaping their global recognition and fanbase. Chatting with PEOPLE, team members Nimroy Turgott and Shane Pitter expressed their gratitude for the support they receive worldwide, largely attributed to the cinematic portrayal of their pioneering journey in winter sports.
The movie, which is a fictionalised account of Jamaica’s first-ever bobsled team participating in the 1988 Winter Olympics, showcased the team’s struggles and triumphs. Turgott reflected on the honour of representing Jamaica in recent competitions, describing the experience as “mind-blowing.” He noted how significant it is for a tropical nation to compete in a winter sport, stating, “We went out there and showed the world that Jamaica can compete and will compete in winter sports.”
Pitter, who serves as the team’s pilot, emphasised the positive impact of the film, recalling how the crowds at competitions enthusiastically chant, “Jamaica, Jamaica, Cool Runnings.” He stated, “The fans are going crazy for us and we know that would have happened at the Olympics, but we take that as motivation to do our best.”
This support has steadily grown since the film’s release, marking a significant boost for the bobsled team, which faced unique hurdles as they prepared for the Winter Olympics. While COVID-19 restrictions dampened fan interaction during the 2022 Games, the recent Olympics allowed the athletes to engage more closely with their supporters. Turgott shared, “At the 2026 Winter Olympics, we felt all the love.”
The team members expressed their gratitude towards a devoted fanbase, explaining how they appreciated every pin, photo opportunity, and gesture of support from spectators. Turgott recalled, “At times, honestly, we feel like we’re getting support even from Mars.” This warmth, they say, is especially poignant given the challenges they face at home in Jamaica, where adequate training facilities and funding remain a struggle.
Both athletes understood the importance of their recognition, noting that without the support shown by fans and the boost from “Cool Runnings,” their achievements would not have been as visible on the global stage. “We don’t really get the same support in Jamaica, but once we head overseas, whether to America or Europe, there’s a lot of fans just waiting for us to get there,” Pitter remarked.
The team’s camaraderie has not only thrived through competition but also during their training sessions. They had the opportunity to bond while preparing together in their accommodation during the Games, hosted by Airbnb. They described cooking meals as a profound experience, which brought them closer as teammates. The film and their shared experiences have enriched their connection to each other.
Adding to the excitement, the team received attention from high-profile personalities such as racing champion Lewis Hamilton, dance music group Major Lazer, and even Snoop Dogg, who joyfully cooked with them during their stay. Pitter highlighted, “We could focus on ourselves, and we bring our Jamaican vibes and culture to the Olympics and Airbnb.”
As the Jamaican bobsled team embarks on its journey towards the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, the legacy of “Cool Runnings” continues to resonate with fans around the globe. The affection and interest generated by the film have not only established a loyal following but also inspired new athletes from Jamaica to take up winter sports.
In a sport where the exposure of a nation with such a warm climate is often limited, the team’s commitment, coupled with the cultural significance of their journey captured in “Cool Runnings,” has enabled them to defy the odds and shine on the world stage. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, both Turgott and Pitter are excited to continue sharing their story, forging connections beyond borders, while embodying the spirit of determination and resilience that the film so beautifully depicted.