The torch relay for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics faces significant challenges from norovirus outbreaks affecting athletes.
Swiss Ice Hockey Team Makes Urgent Change
The Swiss Ice Hockey Federation received confirmation for a single torchbearer on January 7 (Korean time) but urgently selected a female representative full team member due to an expected absence. Head coach Jochi announced the decision following consultations with local medical staff, infectious disease experts, and the currently affected player Jin Yirujin.
In a recent special league match, the Swiss women’s national ice hockey team secured a 4-3 victory, with heightened emotions evident during the post-game locker room interview. The affected player did not participate and remained isolated in a single room from the first period. Officials confirm the condition is not currently serious.
Performance anxiety from the incident weighs heavily on the team. The squad faces Canada in the second special league game on January 8 local time, but such disruptions raise concerns ahead of the Olympics.
Captain Prioritizes Player Health
In situations preventing Olympic participation, protecting player conditions remains paramount, according to the team captain. No main strikers have been sidelined yet.
AFP reports confirm norovirus links to ongoing competitions. On January 5 at Rho Arena, the A-group matchup between Finland and defending champions Canada postponed by one week due to the virus spreading within the Finnish delegation.
Organizers Respond to Spread
Event organizers announced decisions reached through cooperation with affected players amid the norovirus expansion. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) prioritizes participant health and safety in all major events.
Japan Recalls Past Outbreak
A Japanese coach highlighted similar issues during the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, stating, “There was even a goalie affected in Korea eight years ago.” The outbreak impacted players significantly, underscoring recurring risks.
Norovirus spreads rapidly via fecal-oral transmission, posing greater threats in Olympic environments with dense crowds and shared facilities. Despite hygiene measures, complete prevention proves challenging during high-stakes competitions.
