As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, American Olympic skier Alex Ferreira has been open about the anticipated intensity of the rivalry between the U.S. and Canada. With the games set to take place in Milano Cortina, Ferreira, who is entering his third Winter Games, has long viewed Canada as one of his country’s most formidable competitors. His rivalry with Canadian skier Brendan Mackay, who recently won a championship in Bakuriani, Georgia, has been particularly notable in recent years.
Ferreira’s comments come in the wake of recent U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, which he believes may have added to the competitive tension between the two nations. Despite the geopolitical context, Ferreira emphasized the personal nature of the rivalry, noting that both he and Mackay are dedicated to achieving the best results for their respective countries. He also highlighted the importance of training conditions, noting that the slopes in Colorado are more similar to the ones in Livigno, where the men’s skiing events will be held, than the Canadian terrain. This similarity, he argued, could provide an advantage for American athletes.
While both sides have expressed interest in training together, neither Ferreira nor his Canadian counterparts have yet agreed to the proposal. Ferreira’s focus, however, remains on his own performance, as he continues to prepare for the Games. Beyond the sport, Ferreira has shared insights into his personal life, including his pride in the first American-born Pope and his journey with vegetarianism. Although he has since returned to eating meat, he now follows a lighter, plant-based diet, and he also acknowledges the admiration he holds for Cristiano Ronaldo’s approach to alcohol consumption.
The 2026 Winter Olympics are set to begin in February, with more information about the athletes and events available on the TeamUSA website. As the competition approaches, Ferreira’s focus remains on representing the United States to the best of his ability, while also recognizing the importance of maintaining a competitive spirit with his Canadian rivals.