Team USA Soars to Gold in Mixed Team Aerials at Milan Cortina 2026
MILAN, Italy – The United States has defended its Olympic title, winning gold in the freestyle skiing mixed team aerials event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on Saturday. Kaila Kuhn, Connor Curran, and Christopher Lillis combined for a score of 325.35 to secure the victory. Switzerland took silver with 296.91 points, and China claimed bronze with a score of 279.68. This marks back-to-back Olympic gold medals for the U.S. In this event, though only Lillis was a returning member from the 2022 Beijing team. Switzerland’s silver medal is a first for the nation in the mixed team event.
USA Soars to Gold in Mixed Team Aerials at Milan Cortina 2026
The United States has clinched the gold medal in the freestyle skiing mixed team aerials event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games on Saturday, February 21st.
American Trio Dominates the Super Final
Kaila Kuhn, Connor Curran, and Christopher Lillis delivered a stunning performance, achieving a combined score of 325.35 in the Super Final.
Curran’s impressive jump of 113.72 points propelled Team USA into the lead, setting the stage for Lillis to secure the victory.
Lillis, the sole returning member from the 2022 Beijing gold-winning team, capped off the performance with a remarkable 117.19 points.
Switzerland Secures Silver, China Takes Bronze
Switzerland’s team of Lina Kozomara, Pirmin Werner, and Noé Roth earned the silver medal with a score of 296.91.
This marks Switzerland’s first-ever medal in the mixed team aerials event.
The People’s Republic of China, represented by Xu Mengtao, Wang Xindi, and Li Tianma, secured the bronze medal with a score of 279.68.
Despite entering the final as gold medalists in both the men’s and women’s individual events, the Chinese team settled for bronze.
Defending Champions Prevail
Team USA successfully defended their Olympic title, having previously triumphed at the Beijing 2022 Games.
Although the team composition differed from 2022, with only Lillis remaining, the Americans demonstrated consistent excellence throughout the competition.
Lillis nearly reached the medal round in the men’s aerials a day prior but finished eighth.
Kuhn’s Rising Star
Kaila Kuhn, 22, has quickly become a force in the sport, becoming the youngest American to win an individual world title in aerials in 2025.
Her transition to triples has been a key factor in her success, allowing her to achieve consistent results on the FIS World Cup tour.
Did you know?
Kuhn was encouraged to switch to aerials from gymnastics by fellow U.S. Teammate Winter Vinecki after a video of her trampoline skills caught Vinecki’s eye.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Mixed Team Aerials
The success of the USA, Switzerland, and China highlights the growing competitiveness in mixed team aerials.
The event’s inclusion in the Olympic program has spurred increased investment and participation in the sport.
The blend of skill, athleticism, and teamwork makes it a captivating spectacle for audiences worldwide.
Pro Tip
Mastering the triple jump, as demonstrated by Kaila Kuhn, is becoming increasingly crucial for success in aerials. Athletes are focusing on refining their technique and building the strength and confidence to execute these complex maneuvers.
FAQ
Q: Who won the gold medal in mixed team aerials at Milano Cortina 2026?
A: The United States won the gold medal.
Q: Which athletes comprised the U.S. Gold medal-winning team?
A: Kaila Kuhn, Connor Curran, and Christopher Lillis.
Q: What medal did Switzerland win?
A: Switzerland won the silver medal.
Q: Who won the bronze medal?
A: The People’s Republic of China won the bronze medal.
Q: How old is Kaila Kuhn?
A: Kaila Kuhn is 22 years old.
Stay tuned to 247sports.new for continued coverage of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
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