Andorran Skier Bartu Frustrated by Olympic Exclusion After South Korea Struggles

Andorran alpine skier Bartumeu Gabriel, known as Bartu, expressed frustration over his exclusion from the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics after a challenging preparation period in South Korea.

In an Instagram post ahead of Friday's opening ceremony, Bartu described his time in South Korea as marked by "mental instability" stemming from unclear and unassertive decisions and communications. He said this approach drains athletes who work honestly and with commitment toward their goals. Despite posting mediocre results—due to errors that offset his fast skiing—he vowed to persist. "We will keep working to achieve them, to surpass ourselves every day. I can assure you I won't lower my arms. What defines and determines me is my resilient character," he wrote.

Xavier Cornella will represent Andorra in the slalom event instead.

Meanwhile, Andorran skiers Cande Moreno and Jordina Caminal have completed their initial adaptation phase in Cortina d'Ampezzo. "Breathing the Olympic atmosphere is different from any other race. It's a very enriching experience," Cande said. Jordina, experiencing her first Games, added: "I'm very happy to be here."