At the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, amid the stories about grit, records, and medals, a quieter but heartwarming knitting trend took the spotlight. The athletes and coaches were knitting whenever they could find a spare minute in their busy schedules. This confirms that our grandmothers always knew and science has backed this with research: knitting became a way to relax, de-stress, and connect with loved ones. The Olympians showed the world the power of handknits.
Here are five names who have been spotted with knitting needles at the Winter Games this year.
1. Adam Runnalls – Canadian Biathlete
Adam Runnalls, part of Team Canada’s biathlon squad, has become one of the most unexpected knitting figures of these Games. He’s been sharing updates on a winter sweater he’s knitting between workouts and competitions, giving fellow athletes and fans a glimpse into how he spends downtime away from the range and track. On his Instagram, he documented progress on his “Olympic sweater” project. Knitting for seems to be more than just a hobby; it is a way to slow down, reflect, and create something personal amid the high-pressure environment of Olympic competition.
Also Read: 5 Reasons why Knitting is Mindful Meditation
2. Antti Koskinen – Finnish Snowboard Coach
While athletes often get the spotlight, coaches form the backbone of every team. Finnish snowboard coach Antti Koskinen has been spotted with knitting needles in hand during quieter moments in the training village. Knitting serves as a way to decompress during long days of planning, strategizing, and supporting athletes.
3. Maddie Mastro – American Snowboarder
American snowboarder Maddie Mastro is another athlete connected to the informal knitting circle at these Games. According to social media reports, whether she’s working from a pattern or improvising based on mood and color appeal, knitting gives her a break from the usual demands of competitive snowboarding. Mastro’s involvement speaks to how widespread and enjoyable knitting has become, even among high-performance athletes.
4. Maxime Germain – American Biathlete
Also featured in social posts about Olympic knitters is Maxime Germain, an American biathlete who competes in both cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. Alongside team members and coaches, Germain has embraced knitting as a way to stay grounded during one of the most intense competitions in sport. Whether that means tinking a row between sessions or sharing photos of cozy knits in progress, Germain’s approach highlights how knitting fosters calm in a hectic Games schedule.
5. Breezy Johnson – American Alpine Ski Racer
This Olympics widely covered knitting story comes from Breezy Johnson, the U.S. alpine ski racer. Johnson has been knitting headbands and hats before races, often wearing her own makes during competitions, a detail that resonates with knitters everywhere. Reports cover that she was knitting up headbands and other small projects in the days leading up to her gold medal run in the women’s downhill.
Why Knitting Resonates Even at the Olympics
At first glance, knitting and Olympians might seem worlds apart. One is quiet and methodical. The other is fast-paced and physically demanding. But for athletes, knitting offers something many of us seek in our own lives: routine, focus, comfort, and creativity. In between early starts, intense training sessions, and nerve-wracking competitions, knitting becomes a way to pause. It gives athletes a way to take care of themselves mentally and emotionally. And at events like the Olympics, where pressure is high and downtime can be brief, a few rows of knitting can make a big difference.
Though not spotted in the Olympics, Tom Daley, the five-time Olympic champion, lent his knitting skills to dress up the Great Britain team with his knitted & designed scarves and hats. He was the very first to have brought the prowess of the knitting needle to the Olympics. He has inspired his team members and fellow athletes.
Though the Winter Olympics 2026 come to an end, the power of knitting shall continue to reign!
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Athlete details are based on publicly available news reports, interviews, and social media content at the time of writing. We do not claim official affiliation, endorsement, or partnership with the International Olympic Committee, the Winter Olympics, or any of the athletes, teams, or organizations mentioned. All names, titles, and achievements remain the property of their respective organizations and governing bodies.
