Milano Cortina 2026 is rapidly approaching, and as the Olympic Winter Games draw nearer, anticipation is building for athletes and fans alike. The games, set to take place from February 6th to February 22nd, 2026, will see approximately 2,900 athletes from over 90 countries competing across 16 disciplines and 116 medal events. For Swiss sports enthusiasts, the schedule is packed with opportunities to cheer on their national teams, and today, February 19th, 2026, promises a particularly exciting day of competition. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Swiss athletes in action, offering a guide for followers eager to stay updated on their performances.
Switzerland has a strong tradition in the Winter Olympics, consistently ranking among the top nations in medal counts. The Swiss Olympic Team, led by Chef de Mission Ralph Stöckli, is aiming for a successful showing in Milano Cortina, with a focus on maximizing performance across a range of sports. The team’s preparations have been meticulous, and the athletes are primed to deliver their best on the world stage. SRF, the Swiss public broadcasting corporation, will provide extensive coverage of the games, broadcasting at least 12 hours of live programming daily on SRF two, as well as live radio coverage on SRF 3 and comprehensive online and social media updates via SRF Sport.
Thursday’s Schedule: Swiss Athletes in Action
The Olympic program for Thursday, February 19th, 2026, features a diverse range of events with several key opportunities for Swiss athletes to contend for medals. From the precision of curling to the speed of ice speedrunning, and the artistry of figure skating, Swiss competitors will be showcasing their talents throughout the day. Here’s a detailed look at the schedule:
Curling
The day begins with curling action, as the Swiss men’s team takes on Italy in a Round Robin Session 12 match at 09:05. Later in the day, the Swiss women’s team will face the United States in their own Round Robin Session 12 contest, starting at 14:05. Curling continues to be a popular event, and Swiss teams are consistently competitive, making these matches ones to watch.
Ski Mountaineering
A relatively new addition to the Winter Olympic program, ski mountaineering will see Swiss athletes competing in the Sprint Heats starting at 09:50. Marianne Fatton, Caroline Ulrich, Jon Kistler, and Arno Lietha will represent Switzerland in this challenging and dynamic event. Ski mountaineering combines elements of skiing and mountaineering, requiring both technical skill and physical endurance.
Nordic Combination
The Nordic Combination Teamsprint will take place at 10:00 and 14:00, offering another opportunity for Swiss athletes to demonstrate their versatility. This event combines cross-country skiing and ski jumping, demanding a unique skillset from its competitors.
Ski Freestyle
The men’s Ski Freestyle Aerials Finals are scheduled for 14:00, promising thrilling aerial maneuvers and impressive displays of athleticism. Swiss athletes will be aiming to land cleanly and execute difficult tricks to secure a spot on the podium.
Ice Hockey
In women’s ice hockey, Switzerland will compete for the bronze medal against Sweden at 14:40. This is a crucial match for the Swiss team, who will be looking to secure a coveted Olympic medal. The Swiss women’s ice hockey team has been steadily improving in recent years, and this game represents a significant opportunity for them to showcase their progress on the international stage.
Speed Skating
Livio Wenger will represent Switzerland in the Men’s 1500m speed skating event, starting at 16:30. Speed skating demands incredible speed, endurance, and technique, and Wenger will be aiming to achieve a personal best and challenge for a top finish.
Figure Skating
The evening session features the Women’s Single Skating Free Skate, with Livia Kaiser and Kimmy Repond representing Switzerland, beginning at 19:00. Figure skating combines athleticism with artistry, and the Swiss skaters will be hoping to captivate the audience with their performances.
Curling – Men’s Semifinals
The Men’s Curling Semifinals will take place at 19:05, determining which teams will advance to the gold medal match. The Swiss team will be hoping to secure a victory and continue their pursuit of Olympic glory.
Ice Hockey – Women’s Final
The Women’s Ice Hockey Final, featuring the United States against Canada, is scheduled for 19:10. Although Switzerland is not participating in the final, the match promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the women’s ice hockey tournament.
SRF’s Comprehensive Coverage
Swiss viewers can follow all the action live on SRF’s television, radio, and online platforms. SRF two will broadcast at least 12 hours of live coverage daily, totaling around 220 hours of live programming throughout the games. The coverage will run from 08:55 to 23:55 on competition days, with a particular focus on Swiss athletes and their performances. Annette Fetscherin and Sascha Ruefer will host the SRF studio in Cortina, providing analysis, interviews, and updates from the heart of the Olympic Village. Radio SRF 3 will also provide live coverage throughout the games.
Looking Ahead
As the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 continue, the Swiss Olympic Team will undoubtedly face both challenges and opportunities. The dedication and skill of the athletes, combined with the comprehensive coverage provided by SRF, promise an exciting and memorable experience for fans across Switzerland and around the world. The next few days will be crucial as athletes compete for medals and strive to achieve their personal bests.
Stay tuned to World Today Journal for continued updates and analysis from the Olympic Winter Games. We encourage you to share your thoughts and support for the Swiss athletes in the comments below.
