Andorran Skier Irineu Esteve Withdraws from Milan-Cortina Olympics Due to Overtraining

Andorran cross-country skier Irineu Esteve has withdrawn from the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, citing physical issues from overtraining that prevent competitive performance.

Esteve informed Olympic Committee of Andorra (COA) president Xavier Espot Miró of the decision during an urgent meeting Thursday afternoon in the Olympic Village. The skier, who had undergone recent medical and performance tests in Predazzo, said his body shows energy deficits mimicking illness. "We've tried everything and kept fighting, which is why I'm here at the Olympic Village—I'm motivated—but my body is showing values like I'm sick, and it's not a condition for competing at this level," he explained. Esteve stressed the problem is not mental but stems from ramping up training intensity in late October instead of tapering off, which extended his recovery. "It's not a mental issue; it's an energy deficit," he added, noting that racing would interrupt rehabilitation. "We're not here for a top-50 finish."

The Andorran Ski Federation (FAE) and COA confirmed the consensual decision among Esteve, his technical team, and officials, despite earlier optimism about his participation following Predazzo tests. He had been scheduled for the 20km skiathlon, 10km individual free, and 50km classic events but will now depart the Village within hours to return to Andorra via Barcelona on Friday. His focus shifts to rest and possible late-season races if recovery allows.

Espot Miró endorsed the move after discussions with Esteve and the team. "They informed me he's not in a position to be competitive, so they've decided not to take part," he said, adding institutional backing for a quick recovery.

The withdrawal ends weeks of uncertainty in an inconsistent season and reduces Andorra's delegation to six athletes, matching past records rather than setting a new high. The announcement came on 7 February 2026.