At the 2026 Olympic Games in Bormio, French athletes Emily Harrop and Thibault Anselmet achieved a remarkable victory in the mixed relay event of ski mountaineering. Their gold medal win followed their earlier successes where Harrop earned a silver and Anselmet a bronze in their respective individual competitions. The win in the relay was particularly thrilling, with the athletes showcasing a strategy that emphasized speed and teamwork, leading to a nail-biting finale that was celebrated by the French supporters with an impromptu rendition of 'La Marseillaise'.

The victory of Harrop and Anselmet is significant not only for the athletes but also for the sport of ski mountaineering, which is relatively new and gaining traction in the Olympic landscape. Their performance is expected to inspire greater interest and participation in the sport, potentially leading to development and growth at both grassroots and competitive levels. Coach Léo Viret expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, as it fulfilled their objectives at the games and highlighted the potential for future advancements in the sport.

As the Olympics continue, the success of the French duo is a reminder of the thrilling nature of winter sports and the depth of talent present in the national team. With the 2026 Games poised to elevate sporting profiles, it is hoped that this success will lead to more investment and support for ski mountaineering in France and beyond, ensuring a bright future for the discipline and its athletes.