As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina draw closer, all eyes are turning to the powerhouse U.S. women’s alpine ski team. With legendary names like Mikaela Shiffrin and Lindsey Vonn at the forefront, the team is poised to make a major impact on the global stage. Though Vonn has officially retired from competitive racing, her influence continues to loom large as a mentor, role model, and public face of American alpine skiing.
Shiffrin’s Reign Continues
Mikaela Shiffrin, the winningest alpine skier in World Cup history, remains the linchpin of the U.S. women’s team. Coming off a dominant 2024 season where she further extended her all-time World Cup wins record, Shiffrin shows no signs of slowing down. With multiple Olympic medals already under her belt, including two golds, she is eyeing Milan-Cortina as an opportunity to solidify her legacy as perhaps the greatest skier of all time.
Known for her versatility across slalom, giant slalom, super-G, and even downhill, Shiffrin is expected to be a top contender in several events. Her rigorous training regimen, mental toughness, and technical precision make her the athlete to watch as the Olympic year ramps up.
The Legacy of Lindsey Vonn
Though she retired in 2019 due to injuries, Lindsey Vonn remains a towering presence in American skiing. With 82 World Cup wins and an Olympic gold to her name, Vonn paved the way for the next generation of skiers, including Shiffrin. In recent years, Vonn has taken on a mentorship role, offering guidance and motivation to current team members. Her competitive spirit and resilience continue to inspire young athletes within the U.S. Ski Team and beyond.
Vonn’s off-the-hill involvement, including her foundation aimed at empowering young girls through sports, adds another layer to her legacy. Her ongoing support of the U.S. team is a reminder that leadership and influence extend far beyond medals.
Rising Stars Strengthen the Team
Beyond Shiffrin, the U.S. women’s team is packed with emerging talent eager to make their Olympic mark. Skiers like Paula Moltzan, Nina O’Brien, and Bella Wright have shown consistent improvements in recent seasons. Moltzan, in particular, has become a strong force in slalom and parallel events, pushing toward podium contention.
With a blend of seasoned experience and promising youth, the U.S. women’s alpine ski team heads into 2026 with depth, ambition, and a real shot at medal success. As Shiffrin leads the charge and Vonn offers her wisdom from the sidelines, Team USA looks primed to deliver a historic performance on the world’s biggest stage.