Park City will see six athletes compete in freeskiing events at the 2026 Olympics, showcasing local talent in slopestyle and halfpipe.
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, Park City, Utah, is set to showcase its talent in the freeskiing events, with six athletes representing the community in Milan. This year’s Games, held in the picturesque Italian Alps town of Livigno, will feature competitions in slopestyle, big air, and halfpipe for both men and women, highlighting the growth and popularity of freeskiing since its Olympic debut.
Freeskiing has gained traction globally, particularly following the inclusion of slopestyle in the 2014 Sochi Games and the big air event in 2018 PyeongChang. The sport is expected to capture attention during the upcoming X Games, scheduled for January 23-25 in Aspen, Colorado. With the Olympic events taking place in Livigno, approximately four hours north of Milan, the anticipation is building among athletes and fans alike.
Among the most prominent Park City competitors is Alex Hall, a 27-year-old freeskier who will be making his third Olympic appearance. Hall, the reigning gold medalist in slopestyle from the Beijing 2022 Games, is anticipated to be a top contender for medals in both slopestyle and big air events in Livigno. Having won the 2024 FIS big air Crystal Globe and the 2025 slopestyle Globe, Hall's credentials are impressive. Despite a recent 42nd place finish in the Steamboat Springs big air World Cup, he remains focused on the upcoming competitions in Aspen and the X Games before heading to the Olympics.
"Taking an event-by-event approach helps me relax and do my best," Hall stated, reflecting on his preparation for the season. He is particularly excited about competing in Livigno, which he regards as a home away from home, having grown up just a few hours away in Zurich, Switzerland.
Another standout, Nick Goepper, is making his fourth Olympic appearance. The 31-year-old freeskier recently transitioned to halfpipe after competing in slopestyle and big air events in previous Olympics. Goepper has thrived in this new discipline, recently winning the Calgary halfpipe World Cup. He is now ranked fourth globally, following a remarkable comeback that saw him finish second in the World Cups over the past two years. "I’m going to win a gold medal in the Olympics next year in Milan, Italy. I know that," Goepper confidently declared as he aims to add to his collection of Olympic medals, which includes two silver medals in slopestyle and a bronze.
Other Park City athletes poised to make an impact include Colby Stevenson and Troy Podmilsak. Stevenson, who won a silver medal in big air at the Beijing Olympics, is aiming for a successful return after a challenging season. He remains a strong contender in both slopestyle and big air events, given his previous accolades, including the slopestyle FIS Crystal Globe. Podmilsak, a 21-year-old emerging talent, qualified for his first Olympics following consecutive World Cup wins and will compete in both big air and slopestyle in Livigno.
Additionally, Rell Harwood and Marin Hamill are also working towards qualification. Harwood, who has shown promise in slopestyle and big air, finished eighth in a recent World Cup competition, while Hamill is looking to bounce back after an injury at the last Olympics. She has been ranked within the top ten internationally and will be aiming for a strong performance to secure her spot.
Moreover, Salt Lake City’s Hunter Hess is another noteworthy competitor. Currently ranked as the number one halfpipe skier in the world, Hess is vying for his Olympic debut, following strong performances in recent World Cups. With podium finishes in two events this season, he is considered a medal contender alongside experienced athletes like Goepper and Ferreira.
As the Olympic events draw closer, Park City’s representation in freeskiing is a testament to the growing prominence of the sport and the talent emerging from the region. The excitement surrounding these athletes is palpable, and their performances in Livigno will not only reflect their dedication and hard work but also the spirit of the community that supports them.
The freeskier finals in Livigno will take place on February 10 for men’s slopestyle and February 17 for men’s big air, marking critical moments for these athletes who have trained tirelessly to reach the pinnacle of their sport. Fans and supporters are eager to watch as Park City’s finest take to the slopes, hoping to bring home Olympic glory.