As the world gears up for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, the Nordic combined event, which combines ski jumping and cross-country skiing, remains a captivating yet challenging discipline. This unique competition not only tests the technical skills of athletes but also their endurance, making it one of the most demanding events on the Olympic stage. Athletes must excel in two distinct sports, with their performance in ski jumping determining the start order for the cross-country race. Despite its rich history, Nordic combined is facing significant challenges, including declining participation rates and the absence of women from the Olympic roster, raising questions about its future in the Games. With the men's field halved for the upcoming Olympics, the spotlight falls on a few standout athletes who are not only competing for medals but also advocating for the sport's evolution. Ben Loomis, a prominent figure in U.S. Nordic combined, has a storied background that showcases his passion and dedication. Loomis, who began skiing at the tender age of five, honed his skills at the Flying Eagles Ski Club in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, before relocating to Park City, Utah, at 15 to attend the Winter Sports School. His impressive achievements include three Junior World Championship appearances and multiple U.S. Junior National titles. Loomis has represented the United States at both the 2018 Pyeongchang and 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, establishing himself as a veteran in the national team. In 2019, Loomis joined the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program, a unique initiative that allows elite athletes to train full-time while serving in the military. This program has enabled him to compete internationally on the World Cup circuit and continue his pursuit of Olympic glory. Now embarking on his third Olympic cycle, Loomis is not only focused on his performance but also on mentoring younger teammates, sharing his wealth of experience to inspire the next generation. Another athlete to watch is Niklas Malacinski, who was introduced to Nordic combined through his upbringing in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Inspired by the Olympic athletes he met after the 2010 Winter Games, Malacinski quickly fell in love with the sport. He joined the U.S. National Team in 2018, alongside his sister Annika, and has made significant strides in his career. His recent accomplishments include qualifying for the 2021 and 2023 World Championships and winning his first U.S. National Championship in 2024. Malacinski opened the 2024-25 World Cup season with a career-best 13th-place finish in Ruka, Finland, and concluded the season ranked 26th in the world, showcasing his potential for future success. Stephen Schumann, another key player from Park City, began ski jumping at five and quickly integrated cross-country skiing into his training, leading him to Nordic combined. A product of the Park City Ski and Snowboard Club, Schumann made his World Cup debut at just 16 years old and represented the U.S. at the 2022 Winter Olympics. His recent performances include a season-best 23rd-place finish in the World Cup and notable team results at world championships. However, Schumann's journey was interrupted by a knee injury sustained last fall, requiring surgery and sidelining him for the entire 2025-26 season. As he focuses on recovery, Schumann remains dedicated to returning to the sport he loves. While the men's competition garners attention, the women's side of Nordic combined is making strides despite significant challenges. The sport has a long Olympic history, yet it remains the only winter Olympic event that excludes women. Alexa Brabec, a rising star from Steamboat Springs, has established herself as a leader in women’s Nordic combined, ranking ninth in the world. At just 20 years old, she has consistently performed well on the World Cup circuit, earning multiple top-three finishes. Brabec balances her competitive success with advocacy efforts to promote Olympic inclusion for women in Nordic combined, aiming to highlight the sport's depth and potential. Annika Malacinski, Niklas's sister, is also a prominent voice for gender equity in Nordic combined. After transitioning from gymnastics, she joined the U.S. team just two years after her first ski jump and quickly rose to 15th in the world rankings. Known for her leadership skills, Annika actively engages in outreach and community efforts to push for women's inclusion in the Olympics. Despite knowing she will not compete in the next Games, her commitment to advancing the sport remains strong. As the countdown to the 2026 Winter Olympics continues, the stories of these athletes exemplify the spirit of Nordic combined. They are not only striving for personal achievements but also working to secure a brighter future for their sport, advocating for inclusivity and recognition within the Olympic framework. With their dedication and resilience, they embody the essence of winter sports and the pursuit of excellence on the world stage.