Maxime Germain To Make Olympic Debut in Milano-Cortina

Maxime Germain (Chamonix-Mont Blanc, FRA/National Guard Biathlon) has been named to his first Olympic Team for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympic Winter Games. The objective selection was announced by the U.S. Biathlon International Competition Committee (ICC) today following the conclusion of the World Cup 3 men’s individual competitions in Annecy-Le Grand Bornand, FRA. 

“Maxime has worked really hard throughout the off season, improving his mental game and bringing an overall level up to the World Cup this year,” said U.S. Biathlon High Performance Director Lowell Bailey. “This showed right away at the first World Cup in Ostersund, where he proved he can be among the world’s fastest and best biathletes. Maxime will be a great addition to the U.S. Olympic team!”

Germain is set to make his Olympic debut in Milano-Cortina after a breakout season opening that has established him among the world’s best. The 24-year-old has turned heads with standout performances in both relay and individual races, playing a key role in the men’s fifth- and fourth-place relay finishes, as well as a sixth-place mixed relay result. Individually, Germain delivered a career-best performance in the men’s sprint, finishing 11th despite one miss in standing, and a 14th place result in the pursuit, securing his Olympic qualification.

“I am stoked to have qualified,” said Germain. “The goal is now to perform there! It is going to be my first Olympics, but it shouldn’t be any different from other racing. Same venue, same racing, different name!”

Germain joins Campbell Wright (Wanaka, NZL/Waiorau Nordic Skiing), Deedra Irwin (Pulaski, WI/Army World Class Athlete Program), and Margie Freed (Apple Valley, MN/Craftsbury Green Racing Project) as the first four qualifiers for the 2026 Olympic Biathlon Team. 

The final team selection for biathlon will be announced on January 6 following completion of the U.S. Biathlon Timed Trials event in Antholz, ITA, and will include one objective and one discretionary selection for both the men’s and women’s teams. All selections to the 2026 U.S. Olympic Team are subject to approval by the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee.