Mikaela Shiffrin Swaps Skis for Cowbells at GoPro Mountain Games to Support Brother in Cross-Country Race
This weekend, Olympic skiing sensation Mikaela Shiffrin took on a different kind of role—not on the slopes, but at the sidelines. Known around the world as the most decorated Alpine skier in history, Shiffrin set aside her skis for a day to become her family’s biggest cheerleader, rooting for her older brother, Taylor Shiffrin, as he competed in the GoPro Mountain Games in Vail, Colorado.
The Mountain Games are an annual celebration of outdoor adventure, bringing together elite athletes from a variety of disciplines including kayaking, climbing, trail running, and mountain biking. Among the standout events is the men’s pro/open XCO mountain bike race, which this year featured 22 competitive cyclists, including 32-year-old Taylor Shiffrin.
Mikaela, typically the one pushing the limits of physical endurance on icy slopes, embraced her position at the base of Golden Peak with enthusiasm and genuine joy. She was there solely as a supporter, a role she rarely gets to experience during her whirlwind ski seasons.
“I mean, it’s so fun,” Mikaela said, clearly energized by the change of pace. “We tried to get to the feed station and couldn’t really figure out where we were going, so I think we missed him. Hopefully he’s doing well.”
Despite the logistical hiccup, her spirit remained high. Seeing Mikaela in this role served as a reminder that even world champions cherish family moments and the opportunity to support their loved ones. It was a candid and refreshing scene—Mikaela blending into the crowd, not as the superstar Olympian, but simply as a proud sister.
The Shiffrin family has always valued athleticism and outdoor adventure, so it comes as no surprise that Taylor found his own passion in endurance sports like mountain biking. While he may not share the same global spotlight as his sister, Taylor’s commitment to his sport was on full display during the grueling XCO race. And if you looked closely, you could see the pride radiating from Mikaela as she cheered him on—despite missing him at the feed station.
This weekend in Vail wasn’t about medals or records for Mikaela—it was about family, camaraderie, and a celebration of athletic spirit in all its forms. Whether on skis or standing on the sidelines, she continues to embody what it means to be a champion: humble, supportive, and always showing up for those who matter most.