2026 Winter Olympics Men’s Freestyle Skiing Big Air Results: Full Podium and Event Highlights
The men’s freestyle skiing big air event at the 2026 Winter Olympics delivered breathtaking tricks, massive rotations, and a thrilling podium finish. Held during Milano Cortina 2026, the competition showcased the world’s top freeski athletes battling for Olympic glory in one of the most explosive events of the Winter Games.
Where Was the Men’s Big Air Event Held?
The big air competition took place at the snow park in Livigno, a venue known for elite-level freestyle skiing and snowboarding events. The purpose-built Olympic jump allowed skiers to perform high-difficulty tricks combining spins, flips, and technical grabs, pushing the limits of progression in the sport.
The final featured the top 12 athletes from qualification, with each skier performing three runs. The best two scores were combined to determine the final standings.
๐ฅ Gold Medal: Birk Ruud (Norway)
Birk Ruud captured the gold medal with a dominant and consistent performance in the final. Already an Olympic champion, Ruud demonstrated why he is considered one of the most complete freeskiers in the world.
His runs featured massive amplitude, clean landings, and high-scoring technical combinations that impressed the judges. By landing two near-flawless tricks under pressure, Ruud secured the top spot on the podium and added another Olympic title to his growing legacy.
๐ฅ Silver Medal: Mac Forehand (United States)
Mac Forehand earned the silver medal after entering the final as one of the strongest qualifiers. Forehand delivered high-difficulty tricks with impressive execution, staying competitive throughout the event.
Although he narrowly missed gold, his performance demonstrated consistency and technical precision. The silver medal marks a major achievement for Team USA in freestyle skiing.
๐ฅ Bronze Medal: Matฤj ล vancer (Austria)
Matฤj ล vancer secured the bronze medal after a strong showing in both qualification and the final round. Known for his creative trick selection and fearless approach, ล vancer landed two high-scoring runs that held up against intense competition.
His podium finish highlights Austria’s continued strength in freestyle skiing disciplines.
Event Format and Scoring Explained
The men’s big air final followed the Olympic format:
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12 skiers advanced from qualification
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Each athlete performed 3 runs
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The best 2 scores were combined
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Highest total score won the medal
Judges evaluated athletes based on difficulty, execution, amplitude, landing quality, and overall impression. Even small mistakes on landings or grabs could make the difference between gold and silver.
Why the 2026 Big Air Final Was Special
The 2026 Olympic big air final stood out for its high progression level. Athletes attempted increasingly technical tricks with multiple rotations and complex grab combinations. The competition was tight, with podium positions decided by narrow scoring margins.