At this year’s Winter Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, 23-year-old freestyle skier Elis Lundholm will compete in the women’s events—even though he identifies as a man. The Swedish Olympic Committee (SOK) announced last Thursday that the athlete from Värmdö near Stockholm has been nominated for the prestigious competition.
Lundholm had come out as transgender several years ago, but had not yet undergone gender-affirming medical treatment. Accordingly, the SOK stated, he meets the same athletic prerequisites as female competitors.
“I feel fortunate that I’ve been treated so well through this process. I know there will be some reactions, but I’m not worried,” the newly minted Olympian told the daily newspaper Aftonbladet.
Sports welcomes everyone
SOK Sports Director Fredrik Joulamo voiced his support for Lundholm: “It’s important that sport welcomes everyone and that competitions are conducted under fair conditions,” said the former basketball coach. “Elis has met the criteria to compete for Sweden in Italy, and we hope Elis will continue to represent Sweden in future Olympic Games.”
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Instagram | Lundholm at work
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Lundholm had made his debut in the women’s World Cup circuit in the 2024/2025 season. Among his most notable European successes are several European Cup wins last year, including in the Czech town of Bíla and in Jyväskylä, Finland. However, he is still considered a long shot to win in Milan-Cortina. In this season’s World Cup rankings for the women’s circuit, he currently sits 18th.
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Instagram | Lundholm at work
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The 2026 Winter Olympics will be officially opened next Friday, February 6, at the San Siro Stadium in Milan. The continent’s largest sporting event of the year is expected to feature roughly 2,900 athletes from around 90 countries, competing in 116 events across 16 disciplines. Germany will send 184 athletes.
Among the torchbearers who will carry the Olympic flame from Greece to the host city were also the two actors from “Heated Rivalry,” Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, TheColu.mn reported.
