Mackie won the green bib with 548 points, finishing ahead of Italy’s Iris De Martin Pinter (488 points) and Andorra’s Gina del Rio (451 points) in the final rankings. Her consistency on the World Cup circuit defined a season that now stands as a record-setting moment for Canadian cross‑country skiing. 

“This is a really, really special feeling,” Mackie said after sealing the title. “I am really proud of my consistency this season, and I think obviously that shows with winning the overall green bib. It hasn’t always been easy… there were stressful moments and some disappointing races, but overall I’m just really proud.” 

Mackie has held the U23 lead since the Tour de Ski, a position that came with significant weight. “Ever since I finished the Tour de Ski and have been in the overall U23 World Cup lead, every single weekend after has been a lot of pressure that I’ve put on myself to keep it,” she explained. “It wasn’t even really on my radar this season, so to have it become a reality was special. I didn’t want that taken away from me, so crossing the finish line today was a big feeling of relief and pride.” 

At the finish, Mackie broke into tears, something she described as the emotional release of months of effort. “It was definitely a big feeling of relief,” she said. “I put a lot of pressure on myself. When it was finally done, it all hit me at once.” 

Her season also included standout performances against the world’s best senior athletes. Among her top World Cup results were a 5th‑place finish in the 5 km free at the Stage World Cup in Toblach, and an 8th‑place finish in the 10 km mass start free in Val di Fiemme, Italy. These performances underscored her ability to excel not only in U23 competition but also on the broader World Cup stage. 

Mackie’s historic title adds to an already exceptional season. She captured gold in the 20 km mass start free at the FIS Nordic Junior & U23 World Ski Championships, finished 8th in her Olympic debut, and contributed to strong Canadian team performances in both the relay and team sprint. 

“Oh, absolutely, this has been a dream season,” Mackie said. “My two big goals were to make the Olympic team and to medal at U23s. So to win U23s, be top 10 in my first Olympics, along with the excellent team results we had, and then to get the green bib too, I can’t ask for more.” 

Mackie’s breakthrough highlights the momentum of Canada’s next generation of athletes and the increasing depth of the country’s cross-country skiing talent pool. 

Full standings:
https://www.fis-ski.com/DB/cross-country/cup-standings.html?sectorcode=CC&seasoncode=2026&cupcode=WCU23&disciplinecode=ALL&gendercode=W&nationcode=

All eyes were on the current U23 World Cup leader Mackie heading into the championships, marked as one of the favourites for the day. Despite the added pressure, she managed the early laps with patience, staying tucked into the draft of the lead group. “It was about racing smart,” said Mackie. “I stayed in the pack, conserved energy, and I knew if I was first over the top of the last hill, I’d have a really good chance of winning.” 

As the pace surged into the final climb, Mackie made her move, cresting the hill with a gap over her competition and charging into the final straight. “The finish here is short, so positioning is everything,” she added. “I skied the last kilometre perfectly and couldn’t be happier.” 

The magnitude of the moment hit her as she crossed the line. “It’s definitely an indescribable feeling. I’m really, really happy and proud,” said Mackie. “This whole week has been fantastic for Team Canada, everyone is lifting each other up, and that gave me so much confidence heading into the final lap.” 

Mackie took the win finishing at a time of 49:41, with Norway’s Eva Ingebrigtsen finishing second and France’s Léonie Perry third. 

Eva INGEBRIGTSEN, NOR, bib number 3, run 1, Alison MACKIE, CAN, bib number 2, run 1, Leonie PERRY, FRA, bib number 1, run 1, winner photo, U23 Women’s 20km Mass Start Free at FIS Junior and U23 World Cross-Country Ski Championships in Lillehammer, Norway, 2026-03-05, Photo Credit: Fredrik Hagen

Two hours after Mackie’s gold, it was McKeever’s turn to battle for a U23 World Championships medal. “I was hearing O Canada as they played the anthem for her,” said McKeever. “That was a really cool moment, definitely some inspiration for sure.” 

In a stacked men’s field, McKeever navigated a chaotic first lap, then much like Mackie settled into the draft and conserved energy. “It was super competitive all the way,” he said. “I had to be careful with positioning and make smart moves late.” The lead group of 10 charged into the final straight, each fighting for a place on the podium. 

“I had two really good downhills and a really good crest of the final hill going into the finish,” he added. “Once the inside lane opened up, I shut my brain off and went for it, sprinted as hard as I could.” 

Finding a sliver of daylight through the traffic, McKeever lunged for the line to finish third behind Germany’s Elias Keck who finished at a time of 43:32, and Savelii Korostelev in silver.  

The bronze was a long time coming. “It feels amazing,” he said. “I’ve been chasing an individual medal at this event for years, so to finally break through is a relief and a testament to all the hard work.” He celebrated with teammates just beyond the finish. “Seeing the Canadian flags, hearing the anthem earlier for Alison, it was pretty sweet. Days like this show what’s possible for our team.” 

The two medals come amid three straight days of celebration for Canada at the championships. “We’ve had a top‑10 every day at these championships, and the momentum is lifting the whole team,” McKeever said. “You see it on the World Cup, at the Olympics, and here at World Juniors and U23s, Canada is on the come‑up. It’s motivating to be part of a group where so many people are doing great things.” 

Mackie echoed that sentiment. “Everyone here is doing so well,  it’s inspiring,” she said. “Our juniors, U23s and seniors are pushing the standard together. That energy carried me today.” 

“This is truly a historic day for Canadian skiing,” said Nordiq Canada CEO Beckie Scott. “We knew how talented and strong this team was going into the championships, and seeing these medals and the results the team has had is proof that Canada’s skiers, coaches and wax techs are on the rise, moving the bar forward every season.” 

Racing at the FIS Nordic Junior and U23 World Ski Championships continues through March 8 in Lillehammer, with the mixed team relays still to come. 

Full Results: https://www.fis-ski.com/DB/general/event-details.html?sectorcode=CC&eventid=62427&seasoncode=2026 

Serrouya stuck with the lead group throughout the race, sprinting to the line in a fight for the final spot on the podium and missing the medal by just 0.4 seconds. “It’s so exciting. I’m very proud of myself today, but I’m also feeling the strength of the whole Canadian team, the atmosphere is electric,” said Serrouya. Describing the final kilometres, she added: “I wasn’t really thinking. I tried to stay relaxed and let my body do its thing, and I just gave it everything I had.” Reflecting on how close the podium was, Serrouya said: “Today exceeded my expectations. Maybe it’s bittersweet when you realize how close a medal was, but there’s no part of me that’s disappointed, just excited imagining what that could have been like.” 

Canada’s depth was evident, with Louison Dubeif finishing sixth, Sarah‑Ève Picard in 16th and Madeleine Wilkie 29th. 

Luisa DAHLKE, GER, Julie SAND-HANSSEN, NOR, Heidi BUCHER, AUT, Ruby SERROUYA, CAN, Iselin Bjervig DRIVENES, NOR, Louison DUBIEF, CAN, podium photo, Junior Women’s 20km Mass Start Free at FIS Junior and U23 World Cross-Country Ski Championships in Lillehammer, Norway, 2026-03-04, Photo Credit: Fredrik Hagen

In the men’s mass start, Moreau delivered one of the most resilient performances of the day after a crash 2.5 kilometres into the race. “It was really tough. After the crash I was about 70th and had to spend a lot of energy moving back up to the lead group,” said Moreau. By the midpoint of the race, he had made it back into the leaders to contend for the podium. “I did my race, tried to recover what I could, and I’m really happy to finish fifth in the world. Our skis were excellent today, the service team and coaches nailed it, and I finished it off with a good sprint.” 

Moreau also highlighted the impact of the team’s early success on his performance. “All the Canadians have been performing well since the start here. Seeing the girls this morning on great skis, that motivates everyone.” 

Thierry Olivier, Teo Wadsworth and Eamon Wilson crossed the line in succession, finishing 23rd, 24th and 25th respectively. 

Marco PINZANI, ITA, Emil August LONGVA, NOR, Anton KEMPPI, FIN, Daniel PEDRANZINI, ITA, Zachari MOREAU, CAN, Tine SPORN, SLO, podium photo, Junior Men’s 20km Mass Start Free at FIS Junior and U23 World Cross-Country Ski Championships in Lillehammer, Norway, 2026-03-04, Photo Credit: Fredrik Hagen

The first two days of competition have showcased the strength of Canada’s developing athletes, and the potential of Canada in the sport. With momentum building, the mixed team relays on March 8 will be a race to watch as the team looks to return to the podium after winning the U23 mixed team relay at the 2023 championships. 

Heading into his fourth Paralympic Winter Games, McGregor is a well-recognized leader within the Paralympic Movement. A co-captain of the Milano Cortina 2026 Canadian Paralympic Team, he holds two Paralympic silver medals (2022, 2018) and a bronze (2014). He is also a three-time world champion, most recently in 2024 alongside his Para ice hockey teammates.

“The Canadian flag represents resilience, courage, and unity – values that define the Paralympic Movement and Canada’s team,” said McGregor. “It’s the honour of a lifetime to carry Canada’s spirit onto the world stage at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. This honour reflects the support of my family, friends, coaches, teammates, and community who have stood beside me throughout this incredible journey through sport and life. “I’m filled with pride, deep gratitude, and a tremendous respect for the opportunity to represent a team that truly reflects the very best of Canada.”

With seven Paralympic medals over two Games appearances, Wilkie is one of the world’s most successful Para nordic skiers. She was one of the breakout stars at PyeongChang 2018, winning a medal of each colour in her debut Games at age 17. She followed it up with four more at Beijing 2022 – two golds, one silver, and one bronze. She is currently the reigning Para biathlon Crystal Globe holder as the overall champion in the women’s standing category.

“I’m incredibly excited and honoured to be named Canada’s flag bearer for the Opening Ceremony, and to share this moment with Tyler McGregor makes it even more special,” said Wilkie. “I remember watching my coach, Brian McKeever, carry the flag in 2018 and seeing how proud he was during the ceremony. So, to follow in his footsteps and hold that same honour is amazing. I’m grateful for this opportunity, and so excited to wave the flag for a country I’m so proud to represent.”

The Opening Ceremony will take place in Verona, which is not a competition cluster for the Games. Because of its location, which would require significant travel for all Canadian team members, McGregor, Wilkie, and all their Canadian teammates will not attend the Opening Ceremony and instead be celebrated in their respective Villages.

“A huge congratulations to Tyler and Natalie on their much-deserved selection; they are both such accomplished athletes, leaders in their sports, and incredible representatives for our country,” said

Catherine Gosselin-Despres, Chief Sport Officer, Canadian Paralympic Committee. “With the format and location of the Opening Ceremony different for these Games, we made the decision alongside the sports that athletes would not attend and prioritize preparation for their competition the next day. While Tyler and Natalie will not be carrying the flag in person, we will be celebrating them in their Villages and amongst the entire Canadian Paralympic Team – and we are immensely proud to have them lead the team into the start of the Games.”

McGregor and his teammates will open their Milano Cortina 2026 tournament on March 7, taking on Slovakia at 8:35 pm local at the Milano Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena. It will be the first of three preliminary bouts as Canada aims to return to the gold medal game set for March 15.

Wilkie will also hit the start line on March 7, with the biathlon sprint the first competition on tap for Canada’s Para nordic skiers. Wilkie will race in the women’s standing event starting at 12 pm local time. Para nordic skiing competition (including Para biathlon and Para cross-country skiing) will take place at the Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium, located in the Val di Fiemme region.

“I couldn’t be more excited to see Tyler and Natalie selected to be Canada’s flag bearers,” said Mac Marcoux, honorary captain, Milano Cortina 2026 Canadian Paralympic Team. “It is such an absolute honour to be selected to carry the flag and lead our team into the Games! Natalie and Tyler have truly earned this opportunity by exemplifying what it means to be strong leaders both in the field of play and as athletes representing Canada on the world stage. Congrats to them both and I can’t wait to cheer them on at the Games.”

“Congratulations to Tyler McGregor (Para ice hockey) and Natalie Wilkie (Para nordic skiing) on being named flag bearers for the Canadian Paralympic Team at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games,” said The Honourable Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport). “This honour recognizes the leadership, dedication and respect you have earned through your performances and contributions to the team. Carrying the Canadian flag at the Paralympic Games is a profound responsibility, and you will lead your teammates onto the world stage with pride.”

Canada will be represented by 50 athletes at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, taking place March 6-15. Audiences can tune in for CBC’s coverage of Milano Cortina 2026 on CBC, CBC Gem, and CBC’s Milano Cortina 2026 website (cbc.ca/milanocortina2026) in English. Coverage in French can be found on ICI TÉLÉ, ICI TOU.TV, and on Radio-Canada.ca/jeux-paralympiques. About the Canadian Paralympic Committee: Paralympic.ca

***

MEDIA CONTACTS

Nicole Watts Canadian Paralympic Team Communications Lead nwatts@paralympic.ca / 613-462-2700 (WhatsApp)

Branden Crowe Media Attaché, Para Ice Hockey bcrowe@hockeycanada.ca / 204-730-2147 (WhatsApp)

Nathaniel Mah Media Attaché, Para Nordic Skiing nmah@nordiqcanada.ca / 403-700-4927 (WhatsApp)

Junior Women:

Ella Fuller – Fernie Nordic Society  

Ruby Serrouya – Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club 

Louison Dubief – AWCA – Fernie Nordic Society  

Eula Palmer-Bird – Sovereign Lake Nordic Club 

Sarah-Ève Picard – CNEPH – Mont-Sainte-Anne 

Madeleine Wilkie – Larch Hills Nordic Society   

Junior Men: 

Eamon Wilson – AWCA – Hollyburn Cross-Country Ski Clu 

Raleigh Tarte – AWCA – Kimberley Nordic Club  

Finn Redman – AWCA – Telemark Nordic   

Zachari Moreau – Club Nordique Mont-Sainte-Anne  

Teo Wadsworth – Canmore Nordic Ski Club 

Thierry Olivier – CNEPH – Club Nordique Mont-Sainte-Anne 

U23 Women: 

Alison Mackie – AWCA – Edmonton Nordic Ski Club 

Anna Stewart – Nakkertok Cross-Country Ski Club 

Marlie Molinaro – Revelstoke Nordic ski Club 

Katya Semeniuk – AWCA – Nakkertok Cross-Country Ski Club 

U23 Men: 

Xavier McKeever – AWCA – Foothills Nordic Ski Club 

Luke Allan – Nakkertok Cross-Country Ski Club 

Ry Prior – AWCA – Club Chelsea Nordiq 

Justin Boudreau – CNEPH – Montériski 

Noah Weir Chaba – AWCA – Canmore Nordic Ski Club  

Leading the team are World Junior medalists Xavier McKeever and Alison Mackie, both of whom will also compete at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games beginning Feb. 6. Mackie, who earned two individual World Junior medals last season, and McKeever will be targeting their first individual podium at the U23 Championships. 

“Our teams this year bring an exceptional combination of depth, experience and momentum,” said Eric de Nys, Nordiq Canada’s acting high‑performance director. “We have athletes who have proven they can excel on the world stage, and a new wave of young skiers who are eager to rise. This group has the talent, resilience and competitive fire to deliver standout performances in Lillehammer.” 

The team will be supported by the following staff: 

• Trip Lead – Matt Smider 
• Trip Lead – Justin Wadsworth 
• Coach – Tormod Vatten
• Coach – Julien Lamoureux 
• Coach – Stephen Hart 
• Coach – Katherine Denis 
• Wax Tech – Adam Pojasok 
• Wax Tech – Renald Briere 
• Wax Tech – Devon Kershaw 
• Wax Tech / Medical Lead – Frank Ackermann  
• Physiotherapy – Greg Redman 

Canada enters the championships as a strong medal contender after recording five individual and one team podiums over the past two years. 

“There’s a real sense of purpose and unity in this team,” says Beckie Scott, CEO of Nordiq Canada. “They’re confident, grounded and incredibly capable. We believe in this group not just because of what they’ve achieved, but because of how they carry themselves. They have the mindset and the talent to rise to the moment, and I’m excited to see what they can do in Lillehammer.” 

Calgary, January 30, 2025 – A team of 15 Para nordic skiers, including guides – who compete across Para biathlon and Para cross-country skiing – have been nominated to compete for Canada at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, the Canadian Paralympic Committee and Nordiq Canada announced Friday.   

Milano Cortina 2026 Canadian Paralympic Team – PARA NORDIC SKIING 

1. Emma Archibald – Fall River, NS 
2. Mark Arendz – Hartsville, PEI  
3. Jesse Bachinsky – Kenora, ON 
4. Levi Nadlersmith (guide for Bachinsky) – Boissevain, MT 
5. Lyne-Marie Bilodeau – Sherbrooke, QC 
6. Collin Cameron – Bracebridge, ON 
7. Brittany Hudak – Prince Albert, SK 
8. Logan Lariviere – Sudbury, ON 
9. Joe Hutton (guide for Lariviere) – Lakeside, ON 
10. Madison Mullin – Fergus, ON 
11. Brooke Ailey (guide for Mullin) – Thunder Bay, ON 
12. Christina Picton – Fonthill, ON  
13. Leo Sammarelli – Vancouver, BC 
14. Natalie Wilkie – Salmon Arm, BC  
15. Derek Zaplotinsky – Smoky Lake, AB  

The squad is led by Mark Arendz, headed to his fifth Paralympic Winter Games. With 12 Paralympic podiums, including a Canadian record six medals at a single Games in 2018, he is one of Canada’s most successful Para athletes of all time.  

“The past four years have been a journey toward this moment, and I’m incredibly proud to be named to my fifth Paralympic Winter Games team,” said Arendz. “I began this quad taking four months away from competition to recover from surgery and reset, always with the goal of returning to the Paralympics. There was a hunger left after Beijing, and now I have the opportunity to put everything together once again and see what I’m capable of. I believe I can put myself in a position to contend for multiple medals in 2026. My focus is on arriving at the start line on March 7 at my best, physically and mentally, trusting my preparation, racing hard and enjoying the experience.” 

Brittany Hudak, one of five co-captains of the Milano Cortina 2026 Canadian Paralympic Team, is set for her fourth Games appearance, while Collin Cameron, Natalie Wilkie, and Derek Zaplotinsky will each be competing at their third consecutive Games.  

Arendz, Hudak, Cameron, and Wilkie are the team’s four Paralympic medallists. Alongside Arendz, Wilkie holds seven medals, Cameron six, and Hudak three.  

“I feel very honoured to be named to my fourth Paralympic team and the thought of representing Canada still gives me chills” said Hudak. “It’s such a privilege to compete for Canada on the world stage and I want to hone in on all of that energy for these upcoming Games. The team has had an amazing season so far with podiums and personal bests. I think this really showcases the strength of the team and our ability to perform under pressure and on demand.” 

Lyne-Marie Bilodeau and Christina Picton also are returnees from the Beijing 2022 squad, set for their second Games appearances.  

Eight athletes will be making their Paralympic debuts – Emma Archibald, Leo Sammarelli, Madison Mullin and guide Brooke Ailey, Jesse Bachinsky and guide Levi Nadlersmith, and Logan Lariviere and guide Joe Hutton.  

“Being named to the Paralympic team means reaching a mountain-top goal I’ve worked hard toward since I began this sport!” said Archibald.  “I’m incredibly proud of every step that led me here, and even more excited to represent Canada, my communities, and the Paralympic Movement, using this platform to show our team’s strength and inspire the next generation of Para athletes!” 

Para nordic skiing includes two sports at the Games – Para biathlon and Para cross-country skiing. Canada’s Para nordic skiing team has been the nation’s most successful at the past two Games, with a record 16 medals in 2018 followed by 14 in 2022.  

The athletes will be joined in Italy by a support staff led by head coach Brian McKeever, Canada’s most decorated Winter Paralympian. This will be McKeever’s first Games as coach following a legendary career spanning six Games with 20 medals.  

1. Team Leader – Marshall Starkman – Calgary, AB  
2. Head Coach Cross Country – Brian McKeever – Canmore, AB 
3. Head Coach Biathlon – Menno Arendz – Hartsville, PEI 
4. Assistant Coach – Leslie Bode – Thunder Bay, ON 
5. Team Coordinator – Haley Morey  
6. Mental Performance – Clare Fewster – Calgary, AB  
7. Jess Kryski – IST Lead/Physiologist  
8. Massage Therapy – Sarah Stephen – Yellowknife, NT 
9. Physiotherapy – Shane Munro – Canmore, AB  
10. Head Wax Technician – Lahav Wolach – Calgary, AB  
11. Wax Technician – Andrew Vanden Berg – Thunder Bay, ON  
12. Ski Pilot – Russell Kennedy – Canmore, AB  
13. Ski Pilot – Jacqueline Akerman 
14. Ski Pilot – Patrick Moore  
15. Aide – Tamara Howard – Kenora, ON  

Para nordic skiing competition will take place March 7-15 at the Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium located in the Val di Fiemme region of Italy. The schedule is as follows: 

March 7: Para Biathlon 12.5km Individual 
March 8: Para Cross-Country Sprint Classic
March 10: Para Biathlon 7.5km Sprint 
March 11: Para Cross-Country 20km Free
March 13: Para Biathlon Sprint Pursuit
March 14: Para Cross-Country Relays
March 15: Para Cross-Country Middle Distance 

“Congratulations to all 15 Para nordic skiers heading to Milano Cortina,” said Mac Marcoux, honorary captain, Milano Cortina 2026 Canadian Paralympic Team. “Canada’s Para nordic skiing team has been a world leader for many years now, and I am stoked to welcome back such incredible Paralympians like Mark, Natalie, Brittany, and Collin. With eight athletes making their Paralympic debuts as well, the future of Para nordic skiing is bright. It is going to be a very exciting Games watching this team compete.”  

The Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games will take place March 6-15, 2026 and feature athletes competing in six sports – Para alpine skiing, Para ice hockey, Para nordic skiing (Para biathlon and Para cross-country skiing), Para snowboard, and wheelchair curling. Canada is expecting to send a team of approximately 50 athletes.  

CLICK HERE to see the complete list of athletes currently nominated to the Canadian Paralympic Team. 

Prior to being officially named to the Canadian Paralympic Team, all nominations are subject to approval by the Canadian Paralympic Committee. The approved final roster will be announced closer to the start of the Games.  

About the Canadian Paralympic Committee: Paralympic.ca   

About Nordiq Canada: NordiqCanada.ca 
 

MEDIA CONTACTS 

Nicole Watts
Senior Manager, Communications & PR
Canadian Paralympic Committee
nwatts@paralympic.ca / 613-462-2700 

Nathaniel Mah 
Para Nordic Skiing Media Attaché
Nordiq Canada
nmah@nordiqcanada.ca / 403-700-4927
 

Bouffard‑Nesbitt had initially been designated as the first alternate. She was added to the roster after the International Ski Federation’s quota reallocation process awarded Canada an additional women’s spot. 

“Olivia has earned this opportunity through strong results,” said Eric de Nys, acting high‑performance director at Nordiq Canada. “Her consistent form on the World Cup circuit shows she’s ready to line up against the best in the world. We’re incredibly proud to have her on this team and know she will represent Canada with determination, professionalism and heart.” 

Bouffard‑Nesbitt has delivered a series of strong performances this season, including a 27th‑place finish in the Tour de Ski sprint and an 11th‑place result in the women’s team sprint in Goms alongside teammate Liliane Gagnon. 

“I’m so excited to join the team heading to Milano Cortina. To be part of this squad is such a privilege, especially at a time when there is so much momentum within the team,” Bouffard‑Nesbitt said. “It feels like we’re on this tremendous upswing, and I’m committed to doing whatever I can to contribute to the positive energy of this team.” 

Bouffard‑Nesbitt competed at the 2022 Beijing Winter Games. Her addition strengthens a young and emerging Canadian women’s squad heading into 2026, bringing sprinting power, international experience and proven readiness on major stages to bolster Canada’s depth and relay potential. 

Team Canada’s cross‑country skiing roster for Milano Cortina 2026 now includes: 

Women:
Olivia Bouffard‑Nesbitt (Morin Heights, Que.)
Jasmine Drolet (Rossland, B.C.)
Liliane Gagnon (Shawinigan‑Sud, Que.)
Alison Mackie (Edmonton, Alta.)
Sonjaa Schmidt (Whitehorse, Yuk.)
Katherine Stewart‑Jones (Chelsea, Que.)
Amelia Wells (Victoria, B.C.) 

Men:
Antoine Cyr (Gatineau, Que.)
Rémi Drolet (Rossland, B.C.)
Max Hollmann (Thunder Bay, Ont.)
Xavier McKeever (Canmore, Alta.)
Tom Stephen (Calgary, Alta.) 

Cross-country skiing will take place February 7 to 22, 2026 (Days 1 to 16) at the Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium in the Val di Fiemme region. 

Natalie Wilkie closed out a dominant campaign in style, shooting clean and racing to her sixth victory of the season in the final individual race. The performance sealed the overall Crystal Globe in the women’s standing category, adding yet another gold medal to an already remarkable season. 

“This was one of my most consistent seasons on the range, and I’m glad to see it paid off,” said Wilkie. “One of my main goals outside of performing at the Paralympic Winter Games was winning an overall Para Biathlon title, and to see it become a reality is truly an amazing feeling.” 

Wilkie finished atop the overall Para Biathlon World Cup standings with 885 points, claiming the Crystal Globe ahead of teammate Brittany Hudak, who placed second overall with 662 points. American Danielle Aravich rounded out the podium, finishing third with 629 points.  

The overall title in the men’s standing category came down to the final race of the season, with France’s Benjamin Daviet holding a six-point lead over Arendz going into the individual race. With the pressure higher than ever, Arendz delivered, shooting clean and powering through the course to claim the win and overall World Cup title.  

“To come down to not only the final race, but the final lap, where I needed to hold onto my four-second lead to win the race and the overall is as exciting as it gets,” said Arendz. “The overall Crystal Globe signifies consistency throughout the season, and that’s what we as a team were able to do in three categories. It shows our strength as a team as we now look towards the Paralympics.” 

The win secured Arendz his fifth career Crystal Globe, further cementing his place among the world’s top Para biathletes. 

Arendz finished with 765 points, edging France’s Benjamin Daviet, who placed second overall with 761 points. Fellow French skier Karl Tabouret completed the overall podium in third with 636 points.  

Consistency was the hallmark of Derek Zaplotinsky’s season, and it paid off with his first career Crystal Globe, marking a major milestone in his international career. 

“This one means a lot,” said Zaplotinsky. “It’s always been a dream of mine to win a Crystal Globe, and to finally do it on a Paralympic year is just icing on the cake. I’ve been consistent this year, and really happy with my racing and shooting, it means a lot to be taking this back to Canada with me.”  

Zaplotinsky finished the season with 666 points, securing the overall Crystal Globe ahead of Britain’s Scott Meenagh, who finished second with 577 points. Ukraine’s Taras Rad rounded out the overall podium in third with 570 points. 

With three Crystal Globes secured and momentum higher than ever, the team now turns its focus toward final preparations for the upcoming Paralympic Winter Games starting March 6.  

“Partnerships with Canadian companies who believe in Canadian athletes are incredibly meaningful to us,” said Beckie Scott, CEO of Nordiq Canada. “Burnbrae Farms’ commitment to quality, nutrition, and community aligns perfectly with our values. As our teams head overseas, it’s powerful to know they are being supported by a proudly Canadian partner.” 

“We are eggstremely proud to partner with Nordiq Canada to support and fuel Canadian athletes,” said Margaret Hudson, President & CEO at Burnbrae Farms Limited.  “This partnership is aligned with our family values of giving back to local communities, through grassroots and national programs to enhance the lives of Canadians.” 

Strong nutrition habits play an important role in athlete preparation, recovery, and long competition blocks, helping athletes meet the physical demands of training and racing throughout the season. 

“As an athlete, having foods you trust makes a big difference, especially when you’re training hard and travelling a lot,” said Collin Cameron, National Ski Team athlete and two-time world champion. “Eggs are something I eat almost every morning before training. Knowing that a Canadian company like Burnbrae Farms is choosing to invest in our team and support Canadian athletes makes that daily routine even more meaningful.” 

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence, health, and supporting Canadian success on the world stage. 

“High performance is built on strong fundamentals,” Scott said. “We’re thrilled to welcome Burnbrae Farms as a partner and grateful for their support as our athletes pursue their goals internationally.” 

For more information about Burnbrae Farms, visit https://www.burnbraefarms.com/ 

The defining feature of the World Cup stop was the weather. Heavy snowfall and gusting winds created slow course conditions and required constant wind adjustments on the shooting range. Combined with occasional rifle issues, athletes were pushed to manage not only physical demands, but significant technical and mental challenges as well.

12.5‑kilometre individual

In the men’s standing 12.5‑kilometre individual, Mark Arendz continued his winning streak, capturing his fourth World Cup victory of the season after shooting 18 for 20 and finishing in 36:16.4.

“We woke up with lots of fresh snow and the wind really picked up on the range,” said Arendz. “When I missed early, it put pressure on the rest of the shots. I focused on what I could control and skied as hard as I could to the line. It wasn’t the easiest one, mentally or physically.”

Top 3 — Men’s Standing Individual

1. Mark Arendz (CAN) — 36:16.4
2. Benjamin Daviet (FRA) — 36:45.6
3. Wu Junbao (CHN) — 36:49.9

In the women’s standing individual, Natalie Wilkie extended her winning streak, shooting 20 for 20 to claim gold in 39:50.1. Brittany Hudak joined her on the podium in third, finishing in 40:52.3 after one shooting penalty.

Top 3 — Women’s Standing Individual

1. Natalie Wilkie (CAN) — 39:50.1
2. Zhao Zhiqing (CHN) — 39:56.2
3. Brittany Hudak (CAN) — 40:52.3

Derek Zaplotinsky, the current men’s sitting World Cup overall leader, placed sixth in the individual in 44:04.8 with two misses. Christina Picton also finished sixth in the women’s sitting individual in 52:27.3, while Maddie Mullin and guide Brooke Ailey crossed the line seventh in 30:49.0 in the women’s vision‑impaired race.

Sprint pursuit

In sprint pursuit qualification, both Wilkie and Arendz shot eight for 10, earning starting positions of fourth and seventh, respectively, for the final. Hudak shot clean in qualification to start the final in third.

Wilkie began the final in pursuit of China’s Zhao Zhiqing and Guo Yujie, along with teammate Hudak. The two Canadians worked together through the opening lap and entered the range at the same time for the first shoot. Wilkie delivered a perfect 10 for 10 in the final, racing to second in 17:20.9 to earn her fifth consecutive podium. Hudak finished fifth in 18:19.5 after three misses in her second shooting stage.

“It was a really good week for our entire team,” said Wilkie. “There was a lot of teamwork, testing skis, building each other up and sharing information, and that really showed. I think when I’m racing happy and enjoying what I’m doing, I stay more relaxed, and that’s when I’m able to put together my best performances. This week had some really challenging moments with the weather, but as a team we did a good job keeping the energy positive.”

Top 3 — Women’s Standing Sprint Pursuit

1. Guo Yujie (CHN) — 17:20.9
2. Natalie Wilkie (CAN) — 17:52.7
3. Zhao Zhiqing (CHN) — 18:11.5

In the men’s standing sprint pursuit final, Arendz leaned on ski speed to move through the field, but one miss in his first bout made the gap to first too great to close. He finished third in 15:11.3, marking his 100th career World Cup start and 60th career podium.

Top 3 — Men’s Standing Sprint Pursuit

1. Marco Maier (GER) — 15:11.3
2. Cai Jiayun (CHN) — 15:14.7
3. Mark Arendz (CAN) — 15:35.6

With two shooting penalties in the final, Zaplotinsky placed fifth in 22:53.4.

7.5‑kilometre sprint

After waking up with sore throats, both Arendz and Picton opted not to start the final day’s sprint in Notschrei, choosing to prioritize recovery ahead of upcoming cross‑country races and the Paralympics.

“It was a difficult decision,” said Arendz. “Racing while you’re coming down with something can lead to longer recovery and missing races. The goal this season is to be at my best for the Paralympics.”

Heading into the women’s standing 7.5‑kilometre sprint, Wilkie and Hudak knew the competition from China would be fierce.

With calm conditions on the final day, clean shooting became a requirement to contend for victory. Wilkie delivered once again, posting a clean race to finish second in 23:25.1, just 7.7 seconds behind Zhao Zhiqing (CHN). Hudak recorded one miss but produced one of her strongest ski performances of the week, finishing third in 24:42.1 to earn her second podium at the World Cup stop.

“I was really happy with how I executed my race today,” said Hudak. “I had one miss on the range, but I felt strong on the skis and was able to push hard the entire way. My legs felt much better than they did earlier in the week, and that allowed me to really race with confidence.”

This World Cup stop marked Canada’s first opportunity this season to race against China, which fielded a full and competitive team across all categories.

“Racing such strong competition pushes everyone to a higher level,” she said. “China has a really competitive team, and having them on the start line forces you to be sharp in every part of the race. That’s exactly what you want heading toward the Games, full fields, hard racing and a clear picture of where you need to keep improving.”

Top 3 — Women’s Standing Sprint

1. Zhao Zhiqing (CHN) — 23:17.7
2. Natalie Wilkie (CAN) — 23:25.1
3. Brittany Hudak (CAN) — 24:42.1

In the men’s sitting sprint, Zaplotinsky shot clean and finished sixth in 22:53.4, retaining his overall World Cup lead. Mullin and Ailey placed eighth in 27:46.7 in the women’s vision‑impaired sprint.

“The athletes handled some of the toughest conditions we’ve seen in years and made smart decisions throughout the week,” said Canada’s Para biathlon coach Menno Arendz. “What’s been most encouraging is the consistency they’re showing, finding ways to improve, learning from each race and making adjustments as the week went on. That approach is exactly what we want to see at this stage of the season as we fine‑tune the small details and make our final adjustments heading toward the Games.”

Wilkie leaves Notschrei ranked first overall in women’s standing, with Hudak second overall. Arendz sits second overall in men’s standing. With three races remaining in the Para biathlon World Cup season, the Crystal Globe overall titles will be decided in Jakuszyce, Poland, ahead of the Paralympic Games.

Full Results: https://www.biathlonworld.com/results?EventType=PBSWRLCP