Snowstorm disrupts schedule of Olympic slopestyle and freestyle events in Italian Alps

A significant snowstorm has disrupted the schedule of Olympic slopestyle and freestyle events in Livigno, Italy, impacting competitions for both women and men. The women’s snowboarding slopestyle final, originally scheduled for Tuesday, February 17, 2026, has been called off, with no immediate reschedule announced.

Weather’s Impact on Competition

More than four inches of snow had fallen by midday Tuesday, creating challenging conditions for athletes. Heavy snow and wind can significantly impact performance in slopestyle events, potentially throwing snowboarders off course or slowing their ascent to jump platforms. The qualifying round for freestyle aerials has also been delayed, and the men’s ski big air finals are still scheduled for Tuesday.

The delays affect athletes like New Zealander Zoi Sadowski-Synnott, who qualified first on Sunday and was aiming for a repeat victory. Monday evening also saw a delay in the women’s big air contest, ultimately won by Canada’s Megan Oldham, with Eileen Gu finishing second.

Athlete Perspectives

Hannah Norman, a slopestyle snowboarder, has been drawing comparisons to Ilona Mar, described as a “symbol of confidence and strength.” Norman expressed surprise and gratitude at the comparison, noting she’s been a fan of Mar since the 2020 Summer Olympics. She emphasized the importance of embracing strength over fragility, a message she personally resonates with.

Norman also highlighted the high-risk nature of her sport, acknowledging the years of training and sacrifice required for those brief moments of competition. She described pressure as a “privilege,” indicating it signifies both personal and external investment in her performance.

Norman shared the special experience of having her family present, a rare occurrence due to their busy schedules. She described a particularly meaningful moment after landing her second run, captured on video, where she shared the joy with her parents, who have witnessed her entire journey.

Life at the Olympic Village

Norman expressed excitement about watching the men’s slopestyle snowboarding competition, anticipating a highly competitive event. She noted the Olympic Village is located approximately a four to five-hour drive from Milan, but offers access to other events like mogul and aerial skiing. The gnocchi at the Olympic Village dining hall is a particular favorite, even with a noted lack of chocolate muffins and lava cakes.

Norman also commented on the record-breaking gender balance at these Winter Games, expressing her enthusiasm at seeing a greater representation of women in winter sports. She described the experience of being surrounded by elite female athletes as “special” and “powerful.”

Looking Ahead

The men’s slopestyle final is currently scheduled for Wednesday, contingent on improved weather conditions. If the forecast holds, athletes will have the opportunity to compete. However, further delays remain possible if conditions do not improve. The rescheduling of the women’s slopestyle final remains uncertain, and organizers will likely assess the weather situation before making a decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the delay of the women’s snowboarding slopestyle final?

A heavy snowstorm in Livigno, Italy, with more than four inches of snow falling by midday Tuesday, caused the delay.

Which other events have been affected by the weather?

Qualifying for freestyle aerials has been delayed, and the start of the women’s big air contest on Monday night was delayed due to windy conditions.

What did Hannah Norman say about the comparison to Ilona Mar?

Hannah Norman expressed surprise and gratitude, stating she has been a fan of Ilona Mar since the 2020 Summer Olympics and resonates with Mar’s message of strength.

As the weather continues to play a role in the Olympic schedule, what impact do you think these delays will have on the athletes’ performance and overall competition dynamics?