The numbers are in, and history has already been made at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics before the first medal was even awarded. As the Games kicked off on February 5th, a different kind of record was broken: a total of 41 publicly out LGBTQ+ athletes are competing in Italy. This is the highest number of out athletes ever recorded at a Winter Olympic Games, surpassing the previous record set in Beijing in 2022.
Contextualizing the Milestone
While 41 might seem like a small number compared to the thousands of athletes competing, its significance cannot be overstated. Historically, the world of elite sports—and particularly the hyper-competitive, often conservative environment of the Winter Games—has not been a welcoming space for queer people. For decades, athletes felt forced to stay in the closet to protect their sponsorships, their team selections, and even their personal safety.
This new record represents a massive cultural shift. It indicates that a new generation of athletes feels safe and supported enough to live authentically while competing at the highest level. “Team LGBTQ,” if it were a country, would now have a delegation size rivaling many mid-sized nations. This rise in visibility isn’t just about numbers; it’s about a changing narrative where one’s sexual orientation or gender identity is no longer seen as a barrier to athletic excellence.
Brave Faces on a Global Stage
These 41 athletes are competing across various disciplines, from figure skating and ice hockey to snowboarding and speed skating. Each one of them is a beacon of courage. By being out on the world stage, they are directly challenging stereotypes about what a queer person looks like and what they are capable of achieving.
Their presence is particularly impactful given the current political climate in the host nation of Italy, where LGBTQ+ rights have faced recent setbacks. These athletes are not just competitors; they are ambassadors for equality. Every time they step onto the ice or the snow, they are making a statement that the queer community belongs everywhere, including the Olympic podium.
The Ripple Effect of Visibility
The true power of this record lies in its ripple effect. For young LGBTQ+ athletes watching around the world, seeing someone like them compete for gold is transformative. It validates their dreams and proves that they don’t have to choose between their authentic selves and their athletic ambitions.
This visibility also fosters a sense of global community. During the Games, online gay chat platforms and social media become cheering sections for “our team.” Fans track the schedules of out athletes, celebrate their victories, and offer support during defeats. The Milano-Cortina 2026 Games are proving that while the ice may be cold, the support for these history-making athletes is hotter than ever. As we watch them compete throughout February, we aren’t just cheering for their countries; we are cheering for progress. LGBTQ+ athletes Winter Olympics 2026