The Alpes-Maritimes will be in the spotlight at the 2026 Winter Olympics with athletes capable of shining on the Italian slopes.
The curtain was raised on Friday, February 6 on the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, a major event in world sports. France is making a strong impression by presenting the largest delegation in its history at the Winter Olympics: nearly 160 athletes competing in 14 disciplines. Spread across six Italian cities, the competitions will see the best international talents competing in 16 different sports.
Among this ambitious French team, several athletes from the Alpes-Maritimes and the neighboring region will thrill Azurean supporters.
Romain Allemand, the new wave of freestyle snowboarding
At just 19 years old, Romain Allemand embodies the future of French freestyle snowboarding. Originally from the Bouches-du-Rhône, the young prodigy made a mark by recently claiming his first World Cup victory on a Swiss slope, notably beating Japanese Yuto Kimura and Chinese Yiming Su, double Olympic medalist.
By becoming the first Frenchman to win in slopestyle at this level, Romain Allemand confirms his immense potential. His recent results are strong. In Milan-Cortina, he clearly aims to leave with a medal. Competing in big air on February 5 and then in slopestyle on February 16, the French snowboarder intends to leave a lasting mark on these Games.
Julia Nirani-Pereira, a confirmation in snowboard cross
Already known to the general public due to her notable World Cup performances, Julia Nirani-Pereira arrives in Milan-Cortina with the status of a key player in the French team. The Azurean sent a strong signal on January 18 by winning the last World Cup stage before the Games. This victory places her among the big favorites in her discipline.
The women’s snowboard cross, scheduled for February 13, will be one of the highlights of these Games. All eyes will be on Julia, ready to write a new page in her sports history.
Adam Siao Him Fa, elegance and ambition on the ice
Affiliated with the Nice Baie des Anges Association, Adam Siao Him Fa represents one of France’s best medal chances in figure skating. A two-time European champion and world championships bronze medalist, the Niçois captivates with the precision of his movements and the remarkable quality of his programs.
After the Beijing Olympic cycle, the skater chose to renew by changing management. His collaboration with Cédric Tour has been decisive, even influencing the musical creation of some of his programs. Determined to shine, Adam Siao Him Fa will be closely followed on February 10 and 13.
Arnaud Alessandria, Monaco’s experienced representative
The sole representative of the Principality of Monaco at the 2026 Winter Olympics, Arnaud Alessandria will carry the Monégasque colors alone. A seasoned skier, he is competing in his third Olympic Games after Sochi 2014 and Beijing 2022. Competing in downhill on February 7 and then in super-G on February 11, the Monégasque relies on his experience to compete with the world’s elite.
The 2026 Winter Olympics promise to offer great emotions for the Alpes-Maritimes and their representatives, between fervent youth, proven talents, and medal dreams. Finally, note that the Paralympic Games will take over starting March 6, 2026, extending the Olympic magic on the Italian slopes.
Ambre Yaici
