Diversity at the 2026 Winter Olympics

The Olympic Games bring together athletes from all over the world, but for a long time, not everyone had the same opportunity to get there. Factors like cost, access to facilities, geography, gender norms, disability access, and representation have shaped who participates in different sports, especially in the Winter Olympics.
That’s starting to change. At the 2026 Winter Olympics, athletes from more diverse backgrounds are competing on one of the world’s biggest stages, challenging long-held ideas about who belongs in winter sports. From first-generation Olympians to athletes from underrepresented communities and countries without strong winter sports traditions, the Games are becoming more reflective of the global audience watching them.
Athletes like Erin Jackson, who made history as the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold in speed skating, show how representation, access, and support can expand what’s possible. Their impact goes beyond medals, influencing who feels inspired to participate, who gets coverage, and how sports evolve for the future.

Your Task:
Imagine you’re part of a media or innovation team for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Step 1: Spot the Barriers
Why have some groups been underrepresented in winter sports? Think about cost, access, geography, and visibility.

Step 2: Why It Matters
How does greater diversity change the Olympics beyond who wins? Consider representation, who feels welcome, and media influence.

Step 3: Create an Idea
Design one idea to increase diversity in winter sports. It could be:

• A youth program

• A brand partnership

• A media or storytelling campaign

Explain:

• Who it’s for

• What problem it solves

• How it makes an impact

This Skillbuilder is in celebration of Black History Month.