Mother-son duo to compete for Mexico in 2026 Winter Olympics

Sarah Schleper and her son Lasse Gaxiola will make history as the first mother-son pair to compete in the same event at the Winter Games.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 4:31pm

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Mexico's Olympic roster for the 2026 Winter Games in Milan will feature a unique mother-son duo. Sarah Schleper, a seven-time Olympian, and her 18-year-old son Lasse Gaxiola will both compete in alpine skiing, marking the first time a mother and son have competed in the same event at the Winter Olympics.

Why it matters

Schleper's journey to the Olympics is particularly remarkable, as she initially retired from competitive skiing in 2011 before obtaining Mexican citizenship in 2014 and making a comeback. The mother-son duo's participation showcases Mexico's growing presence in winter sports and the inspiring story of a family pursuing their Olympic dreams together.

The details

Schleper, who is originally from Vail, Colorado, previously competed for the United States in four Winter Olympics before switching to represent Mexico. Gaxiola secured his Olympic berth through the International Ski Federation rankings after competing in junior and FIS-level races. In 2015, Schleper crossed the finish line with a young Lasse in her arms at the Alpine Ski World Championships in Lienz, Austria.

  • Schleper competed for the U.S. in the 1998, 2002, 2006, and 2010 Winter Olympics.
  • Schleper obtained Mexican citizenship in 2014 and began competing for Mexico in 2018.
  • Gaxiola, Schleper's 18-year-old son, is making his Olympic debut at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan.

The players

Sarah Schleper

A seven-time Olympian who is making history as the oldest female Alpine skier to compete at the Winter Games. She previously competed for the United States before obtaining Mexican citizenship and switching to represent Mexico.

Lasse Gaxiola

Schleper's 18-year-old son, who is making his Olympic debut at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan. He secured his Olympic berth through the International Ski Federation rankings after competing in junior and FIS-level races.

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What they’re saying

“My mom has taught me everything I know about skiing and going with her to the Games is something very special for me, because I get to give back some of what she has taught me.”

— Lasse Gaxiola

“I never in my life thought I would be a seven-time Olympian, and as a Mexican. It has been a very special journey.”

— Sarah Schleper

The takeaway

The participation of this mother-son duo in the 2026 Winter Olympics represents a historic milestone for Mexico's winter sports program, showcasing the country's growing presence on the global stage and the inspiring story of a family pursuing their Olympic dreams together.