The Arctic Winter Games are drawing closer, with less than two months remaining until the event kicks off. Athletes and organizers are getting more excited. However, there is a rise in tensions in the circumpolar region due to U.S. President Donald Trump’s contemplation of taking over Greenland. President Trump has gone as far as threatening military action to acquire Greenland.
Despite these geopolitical tensions, preparations are in full swing for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games set to be held in Whitehorse in March. The event will bring together athletes from various circumpolar regions, including Alaska and over 200 athletes from Greenland.
John Rodda, the President of the Arctic Winter Games International Committee, confirmed that the games will proceed as planned, stating, “We’re not going to cancel the games.” Rodda, who has been involved with the Games since 1974, emphasized that the focus remains on the upcoming event, regardless of external chatter.
The Games have faced political challenges before, like the suspension of the Russian delegation in 2022 following the Ukraine invasion. Despite the ongoing Russian suspension, preparations for the upcoming Games in Whitehorse are moving forward smoothly.
Claus Nielson, the president of the Sport Confederation of Greenland, assured that Greenlandic athletes and coaches are fully committed to participating in the 2026 Arctic Winter Games. Nielson stated, “We have no concerns about sending Greenlandic athletes… We have no intention of withdrawing from participation.”
The Arctic Winter Games are scheduled to commence on March 8, marking the fifth time Whitehorse will host the prestigious event. The city was previously set to host the 2020 Games, which were unfortunately canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic just days before the opening ceremony.