Return of a Unique Storytelling Platform
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC), in collaboration with NBCUniversal and Xfinity, has announced the much-anticipated return of “Making Team USA,” a narrative platform focused on the personal and competitive journeys of athletes as they prepare for the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina 2026. Following its successful introduction before the Paris 2024 Games, the initiative will recommence in 2025, aiming to deepen fan engagement by offering an insider’s view into the qualification processes for top contenders representing Team USA.
Enhanced Fan Engagement and Coverage
In her remarks about the initiative, Katie Bynum Aznavorian, the chief strategy and growth officer at USOPC, expressed excitement about expanding the platform to encompass a wider range of content, including more social media interactions and digital programming. This expansion is designed to create a more immersive experience for fans, enabling them to connect closely with athletes as they navigate the challenges of qualification. She noted that the platform is tailored to provide an exceptional perspective on what it takes to become an Olympian or Paralympian.
As the principal sponsor and the largest Internet provider in the nation, Xfinity will play a crucial role in bringing “Making Team USA” to audiences across various platforms. This initiative will cover all sports and athletes, a comprehensive endeavor aimed at increasing awareness and providing insights into the journey toward representing Team USA.
Partnerships and Future Events
Returning as an official partner of the initiative, Eli Lilly and Company will also be the presenting partner for the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Team Trials in curling and long track speedskating. Jessica Muir, senior director of brand partnerships at Comcast, emphasized the opportunity to spotlight the inspiring stories of athletes as they strive for success on the world stage.
The coverage will include a variety of multimedia content, highlighting both competitive intensity and personal narratives that illustrate the resilience and determination required to qualify. The journey to making the team will unfold through trials, qualifying events, and training camps, showcasing the rigorous process athletes undergo.
Spotlighting Personal Journeys
In his comments, John Slusher, CEO of US Olympic & Paralympic Properties, reflected on the significance of the athletes’ stories, which are rooted in perseverance and sacrifice. He emphasized that “Making Team USA” offers a platform for these narratives to resonate with fans, reminding everyone that the Olympic and Paralympic Games represent more than just medals; they embody the moments that define the athletes’ journeys.
Upcoming events will include the combined Olympic and Paralympic Trials for curling, set to take place in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, from November 11-16, 2025, followed by the long track speedskating trials in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from January 2-5, 2026.
For fans eager to follow the trials and qualification updates, comprehensive details can be found on the “Making Team USA” website. The hub will include athlete trackers, competition calendars, and exclusive digital content, providing a thorough overview of the journey toward team selection. Fans can engage with the platform starting in 2025 by following @TeamUSA on social media channels, ensuring they remain connected to the unfolding stories of Team USA’s hopefuls as they aim for the prestigious Olympic platforms in Milano Cortina.
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