Chinese-American freestyle skier Eileen Gu has sharply criticized the schedule for the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, calling out what she sees as an unfair venue decision for the men’s moguls event.
Gu’s Strong Objections
Gu expressed deep disappointment that her top discipline, men’s moguls, will take place at Happy Valley instead of the main unified venue shared by other events. Officials confirm she directly contacted the International Ski Federation (FIS) to raise concerns, stressing it was not a bid for special treatment but a call for equal access to prime facilities.
“This major event confirms my status as the top athlete, yet the moguls—my core event—is isolated at Happy Valley without unified space for all skiers,” Gu stated. She added, “I felt let down by FIS. Those behind such unfair decisions need replacing.”
Gu further remarked, “It’s blatantly unfair. Labeling it as solo practice disadvantages other nations’ athletes. Full fairness in training opportunities has been neglected.”
Unique Multi-Event Challenge
Daughter of an American mother and Chinese father, Gu remains the sole freestyle skier qualified for slopestyle, halfpipe, and big air at the 2026 Games. Her Beijing successes included a slopestyle silver followed by a big air final appearance, with halfpipe training schedules aligning smoothly.
FIS Addresses Concerns
FIS officials clarified their approach: “All efforts focused on optimal training for athletes. While the conference highlighted potential conflicts for multi-event competitors, schedules offer flexibility for adjustments.”
Key Schedule Details
The big air qualifying round featuring Gu kicks off February 17 at 3:30 a.m. Italian time at Livigno Snowpark.
