During a cross-country skiing qualifying event at the 2026 Winter Olympics, a large dog unexpectedly joined the race, crossing the finish line alongside the competitors, leading to a humorous unofficial ranking.
At the cross-country skiing stadium in Val di Fiemme, Italy, during the women's team sprint qualifying rounds of the 2026 Winter Olympics, a large dog made an amusing entrance by running into the stadium and following the athletes to the finish line. As the competitors crossed one by one, the dog, later identified as a Czech Wolfdog named Nazgul, dashed past them, prompting applause and cheers from the crowd. Notably, an official timekeeper captured this moment with a photograph, suggesting it was a lighthearted point of interest in the competition.
The dog's unexpected participation led to jokes about it finishing in an 'unofficial 20th place,' right behind Croatian athlete Tena Hadzic, who finished in 19th. The dog's owner shared that Nazgul had been vocal about wanting to join their group, expressing a friendly disposition towards people. The light-hearted incident showcased camaraderie among athletes and spectators, drawing varied reactions from competitors. For instance, Swedish athlete Jonna Sundling found the moment amusing, indicating it added a fun twist to the competition.
On the other hand, some athletes had mixed feelings about the dog's presence. For example, Swiss competitor Nadia Kellin expressed relief at not being close to the dog, as she holds a fear of them. This combination of excitement and personal reactions highlights the unpredictability of live sports events and the joy that unexpected moments can bring to both athletes and fans alike. Ultimately, the incident was a delightful distraction amid the seriousness of Olympic competition, serving as a reminder of the sport's human—and canine—element.
