With just 11 days to go before the 2026 Winter Olympic Games kick off in Milano Cortina, Italy, the South African Sports Confederation, Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SASCOC) has announced a record-breaking squad of five athletes to represent the nation. This marks the largest South African delegation ever sent to a Winter Games, surpassing the four athletes who competed at Squaw Valley in 1960.
Meet Team South Africa: Milano Cortina 2026
The 2026 squad is a dynamic blend of youthful promise and experienced leadership, featuring two teenagers and three first-time Olympians:
– Thomas Weir (17) – Alpine Skiing (Slalom & Giant Slalom)
– Lara Markthaler (18) – Alpine Skiing (Slalom & Giant Slalom)
– Malica Malherbe (21) – Freestyle Skiing
– Nicole Burger (31) – Skeleton
– Matthew Smith (35) – Cross Country Skiing
All five athletes will be making their Winter Olympic debuts. Notably, Lara Markthaler steps up to senior Olympic level after her appearance at the Gangwon 2024 Winter Youth Olympics.
Leadership and Support
Three-time Winter Olympian Alex Heath will serve as Chef de Mission, bringing invaluable experience from his appearances in 1998 (Nagano), 2002 (Salt Lake City), and 2006 (Turin).
The coaching team includes Robert Weir and Christian Markthaler (Alpine Skiing), Ole Ensrud (Cross Country), and Rhys Thornbury (Skeleton).
Incentives for Excellence
To inspire podium performances, SASCOC has introduced financial incentives: – Gold: R400,000 for the athlete, R100,000 for the coach – Silver: R200,000 for the athlete, R50,000 for the coach – Bronze: R75,000 for the athlete, R25,000 for the coach
A Proud History, A Bright Future
Twelve different athletes have represented South Africa at seven previous Winter Olympics, but the country is still chasing its first medal. Multiple representatives include Alex Heath (three Games) and Oliver Kraas (two Games). South Africa’s only Winter Paralympian, Bruce Warner, competed in 1998.
Words from SASCOC Leadership
SASCOC President Barry Hendricks expressed pride in the team: “It always brings great pleasure to announce any team that will represent South Africa at a multi-coded Games, with the Winter Olympic Games being the pinnacle for any athlete participating in snow sports.”
CEO Nozipho Jafta added: “Team South Africa has always competed with pride at the Winter Olympic Games. This edition we expect similar, in the pursuit for excellence… we hope their representation will inspire more young athletes to follow their dreams.”
Team South Africa: Milano Cortina 2026 – At a Glance
– Thomas Weir – Alpine Skiing, Slalom & Giant Slalom
– Lara Markthaler – Alpine Skiing, Slalom & Giant Slalom
– Malica Malherbe – Freestyle Skiing, Freestyle
– Nicole Burger – Skeleton, Skeleton
– Matthew Smith – Cross Country Skiing, Cross Country
Looking Ahead
With a youthful team, experienced leadership, and the backing of the nation, Team South Africa heads to Milano Cortina 2026 with high hopes and the dream of making history. Their participation not only aims for medals but also to inspire the next generation of South African winter sports athletes.
For more on Team SA’s journey in Milano Cortina, follow Modern Athlete’s coverage throughout the Games.