Queer Athletes Ready to Shine at 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics
Published on: Feb 5, 2026
Written by: Joey Hodgson
Because the Games are better when we’re in them.
The Olympics are always about peak performance, dramatic moments, and unforgettable outfits. At the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Games, there’s something else shining just as bright: queer joy, visibility, and representation.
This year’s Games are shaping up to be the queerest yet, with more openly LGBTQ+ athletes than ever across the ice, the slopes, and everywhere in between. Milan-Cortina is expected to feature a record number of out Olympians, making it a landmark moment for visibility in winter sports. From figure skating to hockey to alpine skiing, queer athletes are showing up, showing out, and proving talent has no closet.
Athletes to Look Out For
Amber Glenn
In figure skating, Amber Glenn has become one of the most compelling and openly queer voices in the sport. Known for her artistry and athleticism, Glenn has also been candid about mental health and identity, helping make the ice feel more honest and inclusive.
Hilary Knight
Women’s hockey remains one of the most proudly queer corners of elite sport, and Hilary Knight continues to be one of its most visible leaders. Her impact extends far beyond goals and medals, helping normalize queer identities in team sports and inspire the next generation of athletes.
Paul Poirier
Canadian ice dancer Paul Poirier has long pushed the boundaries of expression in a sport where artistry and narrative are everything. Open about his identity, Poirier represents a version of masculinity in sport that is fluid, expressive, and unapologetically authentic.
Breezy Johnson
On the slopes, alpine skier Breezy Johnson has spoken openly about her identity in a sport that has not always embraced difference. Her visibility matters, especially in winter disciplines where queer representation has historically been limited.
Brittany Bowe
Speed skater Brittany Bowe brings both power and visibility to the oval. As an openly LGBTQ+ athlete, she has used her platform to advocate for inclusion while competing at the highest level.
Why this moment matters
Seeing openly queer athletes on one of the world’s biggest stages isn’t just inspiring—it’s powerful. Representation shows young queer people that they belong in every space, including elite sport.
Whether they’re standing on the podium, breaking personal records, or simply skating, skiing, or sliding their hearts out, queer athletes at Milan-Cortina are already winning.
And we’ll be right there with them, cheering, celebrating, and rewatching the highlights. When queer people show up at the Games, the Games get a whole lot better.