The 2026 Winter Olympics are poised to begin in Northern Italy, uniting elite athletes from across the globe. Among these competitors is Elis Lundholm, a 24-year-old freestyle mogul skier from Sweden. Lundholm’s participation marks a historic milestone, as he will be the first out transgender athlete to compete in the Winter Olympics, a significant moment for the sporting community and beyond.
Identifying as a transgender man, Lundholm will compete in the women’s category. He has expressed appreciation for the supportive atmosphere created by his female competitors, highlighting a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect within the sport. Nonetheless, he acknowledges that the increased visibility may invite unwarranted scrutiny and negativity.
Challenges and resilience
Increased visibility often brings with it the potential for backlash. Lundholm has openly recognized that he expects to encounter criticism as his international profile rises. In a recent interview with Aftonbladet, he remarked, “Of course it’s something I thought about. You can hear the voices out there. But then I do my thing and don’t give a damn.” This resilient attitude has been described as both inspiring and empowering, underscoring his commitment to his sport and identity.
Support and criticism
Elis Lundholm embraces support from peers but is aware of the contentious debates surrounding transgender athletes in competitive sports. The International Ski & Snowboard Federation (FIS) maintains specific policies regarding the eligibility of transgender athletes to compete in women’s categories. Current regulations allow athletes to compete based on their registered sex rather than their gender identity, sparking ongoing discussions about fairness and inclusion.
Critics have expressed concerns regarding Lundholm’s participation, particularly citing the presence of the SRY gene, which is typically associated with male biology, as a potential reason for exclusion from women’s events. However, Lundholm has not undergone hormone therapy, which is consistent with the existing regulations that permit him to compete as a female athlete.
The broader context of trans inclusion in sports
The landscape for transgender athletes has undergone significant changes, particularly since the last Summer Olympics, where gender politics were prominently featured. Events surrounding Olympic champion Imane Khelif underscored the complexities of gender eligibility in sports, igniting discussions about fairness and representation.
With the 2026 Winter Games on the horizon, it is anticipated that these will be the final Olympics governed by the current rules regarding transgender athlete participation. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced plans to introduce new guidelines, aiming for more uniform standards across all sports categories. This shift may further influence the treatment of transgender athletes in the future.
Looking ahead to the Olympics
Anticipation builds for Lundholm’s Olympic debut
As February 6 approaches, excitement intensifies around Lundholm’s participation in the upcoming Winter Olympics. Competing in events such as the women’s moguls, where medals will be awarded on February 11, and the dual moguls event on February 14, Lundholm aims to showcase his skills on an international stage.
Lundholm’s journey transcends athletic achievement; it represents a symbol of hope for many in the transgender community. His participation not only challenges conventional norms but also conveys a significant message of acceptance and progress within the sports arena.
With his Olympic debut on the horizon, Lundholm exemplifies the spirit of resilience and determination, inspiring countless individuals. The global audience will be watching as his story unfolds, poised to leave an indelible mark on the legacy of the Olympics.