Andorra Sends Largest Ski Team to 2026 Winter Olympics

Carles Visa, manager of the Andorran Ski Federation (FAE), expressed optimism about Andorra's largest-ever ski delegation at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, crediting years of steady development in athlete training, club structures, and national teams.

Speaking from his office at the FAE headquarters, where he oversees daily operations, FIS relations, competition schedules, and regulations, Visa highlighted the milestone as a source of pride. "We're very pleased to attend with the biggest team we've ever had in skiing," he said, noting that it reflects growing talent and improved organization despite Andorra's status as a small federation facing resource constraints.

The delegation includes high hopes for Joan Verdú, whose strong performances last year position him for a potential standout result despite a rocky season start. Visa anticipates top-30 finishes or better from women Carla Mijares, Jordina Caminal, and Cande Moreno—who impressed at the previous Olympics—as well as Xavier Cornella, gaining experience in his debut. Emerging talents Gina and Irineu could also shine if they ski at their known level without errors. "If everything aligns and we show our capabilities, I'm sure we'll do well," Visa stated.

Athletes arrive confident in their skiing ability, though recent results have slightly dented morale. Preparation follows standard protocols aimed at World Cup consistency rather than Olympics-specific tweaks, with pressure seen as a constant in elite competition. Visa emphasized managing it effectively as key to success.

The final men's spot proved contentious, pitting Xavier Cornella against Bartumeu Gabriel in a tight race decided by milliseconds in recent tests. "It was very tough, especially for them," Visa said, praising both as top talents while urging Gabriel not to lose heart ahead of future World Cups.

Visa reflected on nearly two decades with the FAE, underscoring long-term progress from grassroots to elite levels. Challenges persist: skiing's high costs strain budgets reliant on state funding, sponsors, and family contributions. The federation lacks fixed physiotherapists or full ski technicians but has advanced via the CTEO high-performance centre's facilities and medical support.

Ongoing debates centre on balancing investments in youth development and top athletes. "We need both base and elite—it's a vicious circle," Visa noted. Success at the Games could mark a turning point, though he prioritizes sustainable consolidation alongside any podium dreams.