MILAN-CORTINA, Italy – As the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina reach their midpoint, the French delegation is aiming to surpass its previous best medal haul of 15, achieved in both 2014 (Sochi, Russia) and 2018 (Pyeongchang, South Korea). Today, , the focus will be on biathlon and mixed team snowboardcross, with additional medal opportunities in the men’s cross-country skiing relay.
The biathlon events are set to take place in Anterselva, Trentino-Alto Adige, while the cross-country skiing competition will unfold in Tofane, Veneto. Livigno, Lombardy, will host the snowboardcross action.
The men’s biathlon pursuit is scheduled to begin at local time, followed by the cross-country skiing relay at . The French women’s biathletes will then compete in their pursuit race at .
Coverage of the events will be broadcast by France Télévisions and Eurosport, offering comprehensive viewing options for fans across the country.
The French team enters these competitions with a clear objective: to break into the Top 5 in the overall medal standings. A “golden generation” of athletes, blending experienced veterans with promising newcomers, is expected to lead the charge. France currently sits eighth in the medal count with 7 total medals (3 gold, 3 silver and 1 bronze), according to standings updated on .
Biathlon is highlighted as a key sport for French medal hopes. Julia Simon, Justine Braisaz-Bouchet, and Lou Jeanmonnot are considered top contenders on the women’s side, poised to challenge for podium finishes. The men’s team will also look to contribute to the medal tally in the pursuit race.
Beyond biathlon, the French team is also optimistic about its chances in snowboardcross. The mixed team event presents a unique opportunity for success, and the athletes are prepared to deliver a strong performance.
The men’s cross-country skiing relay offers another potential avenue for medals. A cohesive team effort and strategic race execution will be crucial for securing a top-three finish.
As of , the medal standings were as follows:
- Norway: 13 Total (7 Gold, 2 Silver, 4 Bronze)
- Italy: 13 Total (4 Gold, 2 Silver, 7 Bronze)
- United States: 12 Total (4 Gold, 6 Silver, 2 Bronze)
- Germany: 8 Total (3 Gold, 3 Silver, 2 Bronze)
- Austria: 8 Total (2 Gold, 5 Silver, 1 Bronze)
- Japan: 8 Total (2 Gold, 2 Silver, 4 Bronze)
- Switzerland: 7 Total (4 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze)
- France: 7 Total (3 Gold, 3 Silver, 1 Bronze)
- Sweden: 6 Total (3 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze)
- Canada: 4 Total (0 Gold, 1 Silver, 3 Bronze)
- Netherlands: 3 Total (1 Gold, 2 Silver, 0 Bronze)
- China: 3 Total (0 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze)
- Czech Republic: 2 Total (1 Gold, 1 Silver, 0 Bronze)
- Slovenia: 2 Total (1 Gold, 1 Silver, 0 Bronze)
- New Zealand: 2 Total (0 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze)
The French delegation is focused on maximizing its potential across all disciplines, aiming to build on its current medal count and climb the standings. The events on represent a critical opportunity to achieve this goal and solidify France’s position among the world’s leading winter sports nations.
While the nation eagerly anticipates success on the slopes and trails, a curious note is made regarding a shift in consumer preference: the traditionally beloved French pink radish is now facing competition from mechanically cultivated red radishes from Dutch growers. This seemingly unrelated detail serves as a lighthearted aside amidst the intensity of Olympic competition.
