After a challenging finish in the slalom portion of the alpine skiing women’s team combined event, Mikaela Shiffrin is poised to make her mark again as she returns to the slopes in Cortina for the giant slalom, an event that once saw her claim Olympic gold in 2018. The excitement surrounding Shiffrin’s performance cannot be overstated; her journey through the 2022 Winter Olympics was marred by an early exit in the giant slalom, where she failed to complete her first run. This year, she is not just looking to compete but to reclaim her status as a top contender on the international stage.
Competing alongside Shiffrin are three other American skiers: Paula Moltzan, who recently secured a bronze medal in Cortina, A.J. Hurt, and Nina O’Brien. Their participation underscores the depth of talent in the U.S. team, which hopes to build on the momentum of recent successes. Notably, Moltzan’s achievement adds to the team’s confidence, while Hurt and O’Brien aim to make their marks in this high-stakes event.
As the giant slalom competition kicks off on February 15, 2026, at 4 a.m. ET on USA Network, viewers can also catch the second run on NBC at 7 a.m. This event will unfold at the esteemed Olimpia delle Tofane ski course in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, a venue known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery.
Among the competitors are two of the previous Olympic podium finishers from Beijing: gold medalist Sara Hector and silver medalist Federica Brignone. Both athletes bring a wealth of experience and competitive spirit, promising an exhilarating race. Alongside them, other formidable athletes such as Emma Aicher and Sofia Goggia, who have recently claimed victories, will also vie for a place in the spotlight.
For viewers eager to catch the action, options abound. For those without cable, live TV streaming services like DIRECTV offer a five-day free trial, providing access to essential channels like NBC and USA Network. Additionally, subscriptions to Peacock allow fans to stream the event live or catch up with replays, ensuring no one misses a moment of the thrilling competition.
The giant slalom itself is a test of speed and precision, characterized by wide, powerful carving turns that navigate a series of gates. This event demands not just speed but also technical agility, as skiers must maintain momentum while executing sharp turns—a skill that differentiates the elite from the rest.
As the countdown to the Winter Olympics continues, excitement builds not only for the athletes but for fans worldwide. The closing ceremony on February 22 will mark the end of this exhilarating event, but for now, all eyes are on the slopes, where champions are made and legacies are written. The stage is set for an unforgettable display of athleticism and determination, and the world watches in anticipation.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research
