Eritrean-Canadian Skier Shannon Abeda Qualifies for His Third Winter Olympics

Shannon Abeda, the trailblazing alpine skier with Eritrean roots, is set to make his third Winter Olympics appearance in 2026. At 28, the Alberta-raised athlete continues to redefine possibilities in a sport where diversity remains scarce.

Abeda first made history in 2018, becoming the first-ever Eritrean skier to compete on the Olympic stage. Raised in Fort McMurray before moving to Calgary, he was drawn to the slopes at an early age. With relentless dedication, he proudly represented Eritrea in both the 2018 and 2022 Winter Games, paving the way for future athletes from underrepresented communities.

However, after his last Olympic appearance in Beijing, Abeda found himself at a crossroads. The grueling demands of professional skiing and the weight of carrying Eritrea’s flag on the global stage led him to question his future in the sport. Then, a tragic loss gave him a new perspective on his journey.

The untimely passing of a close friend served as a stark reminder of life’s fragility, reigniting his passion for skiing. Instead of stepping away, he committed himself to pushing his limits, embracing every challenge with renewed purpose. His perseverance paid off, earning him a well-deserved spot in Milan 2026.

With another shot at Olympic glory, Abeda is determined to deliver his strongest performance yet. His goal is clear—to leave everything on the slopes, knowing he has given his absolute best.

As he prepares for his third Olympic run, Abeda’s story is more than just about competition; it’s about representation, resilience, and inspiring the next generation. His journey proves that barriers are meant to be broken, and dreams, no matter how improbable, are always worth chasing.