KEY POINTS
- Sarah Schleper and her son Lasse Gaxiola will become the first mother-son duo at the Winter Games.
- Schleper, 46, becomes the oldest female alpine skier in Olympic history.
- Both athletes represent Mexico in alpine skiing at Milano Cortina 2026.
Mexican alpine skier Sarah Schleper and her son Lasse Gaxiola will make Olympic history at Milan-Cortina 2026. They will become the first mother and son ever to compete at the same Winter Olympic Games.
Schleper, aged 46, will also set another record. She becomes the oldest female alpine skier to race at the Winter Olympics. The veteran skier has competed in six previous Winter Games.
Her son, 18-year-old Lasse Gaxiola, makes his Olympic debut. He was named to Mexico’s alpine skiing team alongside his mother. Their participation expands Mexico’s presence in the sport.
Schleper will race at the Tofane Alpine Ski Centre in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Gaxiola’s events will take place at the Stelvio Ski Centre in Bormio. The venues lie several hours apart, limiting chances to watch each other in person.
Their historic pairing adds to Mexico’s broader Olympic story this year. The nation fielded its largest Winter Games delegation in years, with five athletes. These competitors span alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and figure skating.
Schleper’s long career began at the 1998 Winter Olympics for the United States. She later switched allegiance to Mexico after gaining citizenship through marriage. She has represented Mexico in the last three Winter Games.
Her best Olympic result came early in her career with a top-10 finish in slalom. Schleper’s experience brings leadership to a small but diverse Mexican team.
Gaxiola grew up around the sport, inspired by his mother’s long career. He trained in various locations and built skills to qualify for the Olympics. His presence marks a new chapter for Mexico’s winter sports profile.
The duo’s Olympic journey underscores themes of family and perseverance. It connects generations in alpine skiing on a historic competitive stage.
Schleper and Gaxiola both carry hopes for strong showings in their respective events. Their races will attract attention from fans and media worldwide.
As the Games progress, their story adds a unique human element. It highlights Mexico’s expanding footprint in Winter Olympic competition.
