Maryland Athletes Take the Olympic Stage at Milano Cortina 2026

As the 2026 Winter Olympics officially get underway today in Milano Cortina, Italy (February 6–22), a small but notable group of athletes with Maryland ties are representing Team USA on the world’s biggest winter sports stage.

Maryland is not traditionally known as a winter sports pipeline like Colorado, Utah, or Minnesota, making each Olympic appearance from the state a standout achievement. Out of Team USA’s 232 athletes, three competitors with direct Maryland connections are participating in the Olympic Games proper.

Maryland’s Olympians to Watch

Summer Britcher — Women’s Singles Luge

Born in Baltimore, Britcher is one of the most experienced athletes on the U.S. luge team. Milano Cortina marks her fourth Olympic Games, following appearances in 2014, 2018, and 2022. A consistent World Cup medalist, Britcher enters these Games aiming for her first Olympic podium, cementing her legacy as one of the most accomplished American sliders of her generation.

Bryan Sosoo — Men’s Bobsled (Push Athlete)

A Laurel native and Reservoir High School alum, Sosoo’s Olympic journey is one of the most remarkable on Team USA. A former Maryland state champion in track and field (55-meter dash and triple jump), Sosoo transitioned to bobsled less than two years ago. Milano Cortina is his Olympic debut, where he will compete as a push athlete in both the two-man and four-man bobsled events.

Carsten Vissering — Men’s Bobsled (Push Athlete)

Hailing from Bethesda, Vissering is also making his first Olympic appearance. Before discovering bobsled, he was a competitive swimmer, training at the same club as Olympic swimming star Katie Ledecky. Now part of Team USA’s bobsled program, Vissering will push in both two-man and four-man crews, adding another Maryland connection to the sled events.

A Note on Paralympic Representation

Some coverage of “Winter Games” athletes also includes Paralympic competitors. Noah Grove, from Frederick, Maryland, will represent Team USA in sled hockey during the Paralympic Winter Games, which begin in March. While not part of the Olympic roster, Grove’s participation continues Maryland’s presence across the broader Winter Games.

Maryland on the Global Ice

With only three Olympians competing in Milano Cortina, Maryland’s footprint is modest—but meaningful. From a seasoned luge veteran to first-time bobsledders who made lightning-fast transitions into elite competition, these athletes reflect the diverse paths that can lead from Maryland to the Olympic podium.

Events are now underway. For schedules, live results, and athlete updates, readers can follow official Team USA and Olympics platforms throughout the Games.