Andorra's Irineu Esteve Uncertain for Milan-Cortina Olympics Amid Hip Recovery

Andorra's cross-country skier Irineu Esteve remains an uncertain presence at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, with just four days until the opening ceremony, amid ongoing physical and mental challenges following hip surgeries.

The Andorran Olympic Committee has registered seven athletes, but Esteve's participation hinges on his condition. Carles Visa, manager of the Andorran Ski Federation, described the situation as "delicate," citing a strong preseason that unraveled into poor results, triggering a physical and psychological downturn. "Something in the planning didn't go right," Visa told reporters, adding that frustration has worsened the toll. The federation prioritizes competitive results over symbolic attendance, aligning with Esteve's own goal of a top-30 finish. Efforts continue to sharpen his form for late-season World Cups, but optimal shape for the Olympics appears elusive. Should he compete, his debut would be the 20km skiathlon on Sunday at 12:30 in Tesero.

Without Esteve, Andorra would send six athletes. Visa voiced measured optimism for the team, noting good skiing levels and talent potential despite uneven confidence. He praised Joan Verdú as a front-runner capable of top positions, even after inconsistent World Cup top-30s this season. Gina del Rio, 21, has delivered standout results ahead of her Olympic bow. Cande Moreno brings Beijing experience and fresh momentum after securing third place—a national first in speed events—on the European Cup super-G circuit in Sarntal on Wednesday. There, with bib number 7 among over 80 starters, she clocked 1:15.31, 1.06 seconds off the win by World Cup regular Nadine Fest, and now ranks fourth overall in super-G with 156 points. This marks Andorra's 10th European Cup podium in alpine skiing. Jordina Caminal placed 61st in the same race, while Visa highlighted the promise of Xavier Cornella and Carla Mijares, though some arrive still consolidating form.

Travel begins soon to match the decentralized Games: cross-country to Predazzo, men's alpine to Bormio, women's to Cortina d'Ampezzo. The opening will unfold simultaneously across Milan’s San Siro, Cortina, Livigno, and Predazzo, with two cauldrons lighting for the first time—one at Milan’s Arco della Pace, another in Cortina’s Piazza Dibona. Andorra's flag-bearers will reflect this: Verdú from Bormio, Esteve from Predazzo (if present), and Moreno from Cortina. Institutional representatives, including Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Mònica Bonell and Olympic Committee president Xavier Espot, will cover Milan. Espot called the parade "a moment all athletes remember" and the launch of "very special Games" for Andorra. Gina del Rio was initially considered but ruled out due to her race timing.