Germany, a nation with a rich history in winter sports, might just be the dark horse to watch at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. While powerhouses like Norway, Canada, and the United States often dominate the medal tables, a closer look at Germany's recent performances and emerging talent suggests they could be poised for a surprisingly strong showing, particularly in ice hockey.

Germany has a strong tradition at the Winter Olympics, participating in all stagings except for 1924 and 1948. They've hosted the games before and have been dominant in Biathlon, Luge and Bobsleigh.

In ice hockey, the addition of NHL players to the Olympic rosters for the first time since 2014 significantly boosts Germany's potential. The preliminary roster announced includes stars like Leon Draisaitl, Philipp Grubauer, Moritz Seider, Tim Stützle, Lukas Reichel and Nico Sturm. With these six players confirmed, and the possibility of other NHL talents joining, Germany has the opportunity to shock the hockey landscape. Some players from the DEL (the top hockey league in Germany) and other leagues who could also play for Germany at the Olympics could include Wojciech Stachowiak, Alexander Ehl, Marco Sternheimer, Kai Wissmann, and Jaroslav Hafenrichter.

Germany's Men's team qualified for the first time since 2014 by winning their qualification group this past February. They face Denmark on February 12th, Latvia on February 13th, and the USA on February 15th.

Beyond ice hockey, Germany remains a strong contender in various winter sports. Their dominance in sliding sports like luge and bobsleigh is well-documented, and they consistently perform well in biathlon, speed skating, alpine skiing, and ski jumping. With experienced athletes and rising stars, Germany has the potential to secure medals across a range of disciplines.

Several factors contribute to Germany's potential to exceed expectations in 2026. The reunification of East and West Germany has allowed for a more unified and comprehensive approach to sports development. Investment in training facilities, coaching programs, and talent identification has created a strong pipeline of athletes. Moreover, the nation's passion for winter sports fosters a competitive environment that drives athletes to excel.

Of course, challenges remain. The Winter Olympics are fiercely competitive, and success depends on a combination of talent, preparation, and luck. Injuries, unexpected upsets, and the performance of other nations can all impact Germany's medal count. However, with a blend of experienced veterans and emerging stars, Germany has the ingredients to make a significant impact in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. While they may not be the favorites, Germany's underdog status could make their performance all the more exciting to watch.