The upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Games may witness a historic shift in representation, with the U.S. bobsled and skeleton teams expected to feature a record number of women athletes, predominantly women of color. This development marks a significant step toward diversity within the U.S. Olympic winter roster, which could see eight or nine women competing in these sports.
At the 2018 Winter Olympics, the U.S. team included only 21 athletes of Black or Asian descent, approximately 8% of the total roster. As the 2026 Games approach, this number is set to increase, showcasing the potential for enhanced representation in winter sports. U.S. skeleton athlete Mystique Ro, who holds a mixed event world championship title, expressed optimism about the changes. “We’re really doing this,” she stated, highlighting the momentum building within the sport.
While countries like Jamaica have embraced athletes of color in non-traditional winter sports, many leading teams from Europe and the U.S. remain predominantly white. Nevertheless, the presence of Black women among America’s medal contenders is noteworthy. Elana Meyers Taylor, a five-time Olympic medalist, is the most decorated Black athlete in Winter Olympic history, while Kaysha Love recently became the first Black woman to hold the world champion title in monobob. Additionally, Erin Jackson made history in 2022 as the first Black woman to win Olympic gold in an individual winter sport.
Another rising star, Laila Edwards, recently became the first Black woman to represent the U.S. women’s hockey team at the Olympics. “It’s a really big deal,” she remarked upon the roster’s unveiling, emphasizing the importance of representation in sports.
Despite these advancements, challenges persist. The National Ski Areas Association noted that only about 1% of guests at U.S. ski resorts identify as Black, primarily due to the high costs and accessibility issues associated with winter sports. Of the roughly 2,900 athletes at the 2022 Winter Games in Beijing, a significant majority were white. The legacy of Jamaica’s iconic bobsled team still resonates, inspiring athletes worldwide, including Adanna Johnson, who competed for Jamaica at the 2023 world championships. “The sport is growing. There are more opportunities,” she mentioned.
Ro emphasized the need for sustained efforts in promoting diversity, particularly during the years between Winter Olympics. “There’s a lot more diversity,” she noted, advocating for visibility beyond the Olympic spotlight. “We compete every year, and it’s important how we present it to the people.”
Historically, many bobsled athletes transition from other sports, particularly track and field, where speed and power are essential. Vonetta Flowers made history as the first Black woman to win a bobsled medal for the U.S. at the Salt Lake City Games in 2002. Since then, women of color have consistently reached the medal stand.
Meyers Taylor, who was inspired by Flowers, began her athletic journey as a collegiate softball player. Kaysha Love, once a record-setting sprinter, transitioned to bobsledding after being invited to try out for the sport. “Growing up, I was really only excited about summer sports because that’s where I saw me,” she shared. With her success, Love aims to inspire future generations of athletes.
As the Milan Cortina Winter Games approach, the U.S. bobsled and skeleton teams are not only set to make history but also to pave the way for a more inclusive future in winter sports.
