Two-time Olympic gold medalist Mikaela Shiffrin is gearing up to compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics, despite a life-threatening injury she sustained last November. However, she’ll have to do so without the in-person support of her fiancé, Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, a record-breaking skier.
According to Shiffrin, the 2026 Winter Games will feature men’s and women’s skiing events held on separate mountains, approximately six hours apart. The men’s events will take place in Bormio, while the women’s events will be held in Cortina, Italy.
Although the distance will prevent Shiffrin and Kilde from supporting each other in person, they’re accustomed to cheering each other on from afar. During competitions, especially the Olympics, the couple is often too busy to see each other, but they make it a point to call each other.
Shiffrin described their situation as being “like ships passing in the night,” where they’re focused on their respective events and can’t always be present for each other. Despite the distance, they’re used to this arrangement and have learned to adapt.
The couple’s experience and understanding of each other’s schedules and commitments will likely help them navigate the challenges of competing in separate locations. Shiffrin’s determination to compete at the 2026 Olympics, despite her injury, is a testament to her resilience and dedication to her sport.
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, Shiffrin and Kilde will undoubtedly be focused on their respective events, but they’ll also be thinking of each other and offering support from afar. Their love and understanding of each other’s passions and commitments will continue to be a source of strength for the couple.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Shiffrin opened up about her long-distance relationship with Kilde, highlighting the challenges and adaptations they’ve made to support each other’s careers. The couple’s story serves as an inspiration to athletes and couples everywhere, demonstrating the power of love, dedication, and perseverance.
