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Olympic Lab, uncovering the science behind the disciplines of Milano Cortina 2026

No longer competing as an athlete, but returning as a commentator and biomechanics expert, Stefano Maldifassi is once again among the key figures of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics with his segment Olympic Lab, broadcast on Eurosport. The program is dedicated to the scientific analysis of snow and ice disciplines, offering viewers an additional perspective that goes beyond standard sports coverage.

Throughout the series, Maldifassi delivers in-depth insights that connect biomechanics and physics to athletic performance. In figure skating, for instance, the focus is on jump mechanics: the management of angular momentum and control of the landing become measurable factors that directly influence the final score. In skeleton, the analysis shifts to the aerodynamics of the athlete’s position on the sled, helmet design, and the reduction of air drag along the track, variables that may translate into differences of only a few hundredths of a second, yet prove decisive in the standings.

Among the most widely followed features is the breakdown of Federica Brignone’s victory, examined through the forces at play in turns, load distribution on the skis, and the ability to preserve speed when exiting direction changes. The program also addresses lift generation in ski jumping, explaining how body inclination, ski surface area, and airflow interact during the flight phase.

The segment further explores additional technical aspects of winter sports, highlighting how effective movement results from a balance between physical preparation and equipment. In doing so, Olympic Lab broadens the Olympic narrative, providing viewers with tools to interpret performances beyond raw times and final results.