The Slovak team is preparing for the Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, scheduled from 6 to 22 February 2026. During yesterday’s off-site government meeting in Višňové, team leader Roman Buček said Slovakia currently has 30 confirmed spots and expects the final team to grow to around 50 athletes. The Games will take place across six venues and, for the first time in history, in six Olympic villages. Buček highlighted that logistics will be challenging due to the distances between venues and the mountainous terrain, requiring special support for the team, including doctors, physiotherapists, and service staff. The largest part of Slovakia’s delegation will once again be hockey players, who won a sensational bronze in Beijing 2022. This time, the competition will be tougher, with NHL stars returning to Milan. Slovak hockey players will face Finland, Sweden, and the host nation Italy in the group stage. Other confirmed participants include four biathletes and figure skater Adam Hagara. Buček noted that nominations will close on 19 January, with the team approved on 23 January. Slovakia will also have its Olympic House in Milan, near the Teatro alla Scala. “It’s a huge challenge and motivation for all our athletes,” Buček added. “We are ready and confident that the qualifications will be completed and a strong, well-prepared team will travel to the Games.”
Source: TASR
