Milan-Cortina, Italy – The inaugural Olympic ski mountaineering competition concluded today with a strong showing for France, as Emily Harrop secured a silver medal in the sprint event and Thibault Anselmet claimed bronze in the men’s race. The historic event, held in Bormio, Italy, marked the first time ski mountaineering has been featured in the Winter Olympic Games.
Harrop, a four-time overall World Cup champion, was widely considered a favorite for gold. However, she was narrowly defeated by Switzerland’s Marianne Fatton, who became the first Olympic champion in the discipline. Despite the disappointment of missing out on the top spot, Harrop expressed satisfaction with her performance. “Forcément je suis un peu déçue, ce serait mentir de dire le contraire,” Harrop told France TV, adding with a smile, “But I’m happy with the silver.”
The 28-year-old Harrop, born to British parents but representing France, has become a prominent figure in the sport. She aims to add another gold medal in the mixed relay alongside Anselmet. Her decision to compete for France, where she grew up and developed her skiing career, was a deliberate one. As she explained, “I grew up in the French system, the French culture. It was sure that my British family would want me to race under the English flag, but that wouldn’t have made sense to me.”
Anselmet’s bronze medal added to France’s success in the event. The French team is hoping these early medals will contribute to their goal of finishing in the top five of the medal table at the Milan-Cortina Games. The ski mountaineering events are taking place alongside competitions in ski acrobatic halfpipe in Livigno and figure skating in Milan.
Emily Harrop’s Journey to Olympic Silver
Harrop’s path to Olympic competition wasn’t straightforward. Initially an alpine skier, she transitioned to ski mountaineering after sustaining injuries. She discovered a passion for the demanding sport, describing it as “Quel sport badass!” to Franceinfo. Her dedication has paid off, with multiple world championship titles and Pierra Menta victories to her name – a race often called “the Tour de France of skimo.”
Despite her success, Harrop has balanced her athletic pursuits with other commitments, including working as a ski instructor. She even considered retiring from ski mountaineering at times, highlighting the challenges of maintaining a high level of competition although managing other responsibilities.
Thibault Anselmet Completes the French Podium
Thibault Anselmet’s bronze medal in the men’s ski mountaineering sprint further solidified France’s position as a force in the latest Olympic discipline. While details of his race are still emerging, his podium finish demonstrates the strength of the French team. Anselmet will now focus on the mixed relay event, where he and Harrop will team up in pursuit of another gold medal.
What’s Next for the French Team?
The French team will continue to compete across various disciplines at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Vincent Maharavo will attempt to qualify for the final of the ski acrobatic halfpipe in Livigno, while Lorine Schild will perform her long program in the figure skating competition in Milan. The ski-alpinisme mixed relay, featuring Harrop and Anselmet, is scheduled to take place later in the week, offering another opportunity for France to add to its medal count.
The success of Harrop and Anselmet in the inaugural Olympic ski mountaineering competition has undoubtedly raised the profile of the sport and inspired a new generation of athletes. The coming days will reveal whether France can build on this momentum and achieve its goal of a top-five finish in the medal table.
Share your thoughts on the exciting new discipline of ski mountaineering and the French team’s performance in the comments below!
