When the 2026 Winter Olympics kick off on February 6, 2026, in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, two athletes will be carrying the Philippine flag on snow-covered slopes—something we don’t often get to see.
Photo: Tallulah Proulx/Instagram, Francis Ceccarelli/Facebook
Filipino skiers Francis Ceccarelli and Tallulah Proulx are set to compete in the giant slalom and slalom events, representing the Philippines as part of the national ski team.
Both athletes have already competed internationally, including at the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China. Now, they’re stepping onto an even bigger stage.
Here’s a closer look at the two skiers.
Tallulah Proulx
Tallulah Proulx is set to make history as the first Filipino woman to qualify for the Winter Olympics, and she’s also the youngest Filipino Winter Olympian so far at 17.
She grew up in Utah, where access to ski resorts and snowy terrain made it possible for her to start skiing at a young age. Proulx began skiing at three and entered competitions by the time she was seven.
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After recently finishing high school, Proulx secured her Olympic qualification by earning the required FIS points, officially putting her on the 2026 Olympic roster.
Francis Ceccarelli
Francis Ceccarelli’s Olympic appearance also comes with major firsts. He is the first Filipino alpine skier to earn a quota spot at the Winter Olympics and one of only a handful of Filipinos to ever compete in the Games.
Born in Quezon City and adopted by Italian parents, Ceccarelli grew up in Italy and currently lives in Abetone, Tuscany—a town known for its ski scene.
With support from his adoptive mother, a former professional skier, he pursued Filipino citizenship so he could represent the Philippines in international competitions. He has been competing under the Philippine flag since 2023.
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When it comes to sports idols, Ceccarelli looks up to both Filipino and Italian athletes, including Manny Pacquiao and Francesco Totti.
Fans in the Philippines can follow their Olympic journey through the Olympic Games App and select local sports broadcasts during the 2026 Winter Olympics.
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