Ikpefan Represents Nigeria as Sole Contender at Winter Olympics 2026

Nigerian athlete Ikpefan is Nigeria's only representative at the Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina 2026, following his participation in the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. Born and raised in the French Alps, Ikpefan competes in cross-country skiing, aiming to enhance Nigeria's presence in the Winter Games.

He previously finished 73rd in the men's sprint free and 15km classic events in Beijing. The Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina 2026 will feature around 2,900 athletes from 92 countries across 16 sports and 116 medal events.

Ikpefan, with a record of multiple appearances in Nordic World Championships, aims to make a mark in the sprint and distance events. Nigeria made its Winter Olympics debut in Pyeongchang 2018 with a bobsleigh team and a skeleton racer.

Ikpefan's participation marks Nigeria's first athlete to compete twice in the Winter Olympics.