Francis Ceccarelli proud to represent the Philippines despite disappointment in Winter Olympics debut

Francis Ceccarelli etched his name into Philippine sports history after becoming the first Filipino to secure a quota spot in alpine skiing for the 2026 Winter Olympics. For a tropical nation with no winter sports tradition, the achievement alone marked a significant breakthrough.

But on the slopes of Milano Cortina, the 22-year-old Filipino-Italian’s Olympic debut ended in heartbreak.

Ceccarelli was unable to complete the Men’s Slalom event, registering a DNF (Did Not Finish) after crashing out of the course. He was among 52 alpine skiers who failed to finish the technically demanding race — a reminder of the razor-thin margins and unforgiving nature of the discipline. Even elite competitors struggled, including Giant Slalom gold medalist Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, who also did not complete the run.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

Slalom, widely regarded as one of the most technical events in alpine skiing, requires rapid-fire turns, precise edge control, and split-second timing. One slight miscalculation can spell the end of an athlete’s Olympic campaign — and for Ceccarelli, that harsh reality unfolded on sport’s biggest winter stage.

The young skier did not hide his disappointment following the race, acknowledging that he had hoped to maximize the rare opportunity of competing at the Olympics.

WE ARE PROUD OF YOU, FRANCIS!

Alpine skier Francis Ceccarelli remained proud of his opportunity to compete and represent the Philippines at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games despite being unable to finish the slalom event on Monday.

“Representing the Philippines,… pic.twitter.com/1Ml1xJ8eDA

— The Philippine Star (@PhilippineStar) February 16, 2026

“We started so good. This sport is not very easy. Slalom discipline is so really difficult. I hope next time, after I work hard, I can improve in the next race,” Ceccarelli said in a media interaction.

While the result did not reflect his preparation and effort, Ceccarelli’s Olympic qualification remains a watershed moment for Philippine winter sports. Securing a quota slot required consistent performances in international competitions sanctioned by the International Ski Federation, a testament to his dedication and steady climb through the global rankings.

For the Philippines — a country more associated with basketball courts and tropical beaches than snow-covered mountains — Ceccarelli’s participation symbolized expanding horizons. His journey to Milano Cortina showcased the growing reach of Filipino athletes across non-traditional sports.

Despite the disappointment of a DNF, Ceccarelli chose to focus on the larger picture: the pride of carrying the Philippine flag in the Winter Games.

“Representing the Philippines at the Winter Olympics for the first time is an honor for my people, Pinoys, my family, and for the membership. I’m still really happy,” he added.

His words reflected both humility and perspective — a recognition that making history sometimes outweighs the result sheet.

Though his Olympic campaign ended sooner than hoped, Ceccarelli’s breakthrough has laid the foundation for future Filipino winter athletes. His appearance alone proves that representation in snow and ice sports is possible, and that the Philippine tricolor can be seen on even the coldest stages in the world.

For now, the lesson is clear: in a sport as unforgiving as slalom, one run does not define a career. And for Francis Ceccarelli, history has already been written — with more chapters still to come.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate sports fans.