For many winter sports fans, Nordic combined is hard to grasp — two sports in one: ski jumping and cross-country skiing. Part of the Olympics since 1924, it now risks exclusion. Few countries compete, venues are scarce, and at Milano Cortina 2026 only 36 men will take part, down from 55 in Beijing 2022. It remains the only Olympic winter sport without women.
Norway at the Core
Born in mid-19th century Norway, Nordic combined debuted at Holmenkollen in 1892, still a national festival. King Olav V once competed, and Norway remains a powerhouse alongside Germany, Austria, and Japan. Since 2014, these four nations have won all Olympic medals.
Gender Gap and IOC Pressure
The lack of women is the central issue. The IOC calls it the least-watched sport of recent Games, hinting that cutting it may be simpler than adding women’s events. Nordic federations argue the opposite: women’s inclusion could save the sport.
Women’s Movement
Progress is visible: a growing World Cup circuit, new formats in Austria, and the first large-hill event at Holmenkollen. Talents like Germany’s Nathalie Armbruster inspire, but others, like Italy’s Annika Sieff, left for ski jumping due to no Olympic pathway.
Decision Ahead
For Norway, it is more than medals — it’s cultural heritage. The IOC is yet to rule on its 2030 Olympic status. Until then, the sport survives on tradition, a few strong nations, and hopes that women’s inclusion will give it global reach.
