Air Force World Class Athlete Program Preps for Winter Olympics

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As the world prepares for the upcoming Winter Olympic Games, the Department of the Air Force is spotlighting the DAF Air Force World Class Athlete Program (WCAP), a unique initiative that develops elite competitors while strengthening military readiness, recruiting, and leadership development. Two Air Force service members assigned to DAF WCAP are set to compete on the international stage at this year's Winter Olympics in Cortina, Italy representing both Team USA and the Department of the Air Force.

Why it matters

The DAF WCAP enhances recruiting by attracting elite athletes to train full time in pursuit of Olympic competition, aligning with the Secretary of War's focus on ensuring the military has mission-ready, fitness-focused Airmen and Guardians. The program also supports long-term retention, as most current WCAP athletes plan to continue serving beyond their athletic careers.

The details

WCAP athletes serve as ambassadors for the Department of the Air Force wherever they train or compete, held to the same standards of professionalism, customs, and courtesies as all Airmen and Guardians. The skills required to succeed at the elite level, including resilience, precision, and dedication, translate directly to operational effectiveness. WCAP's location at Peterson Space Force Base allows the program to benefit from close proximity to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, national governing bodies, and the U.S. Air Force Academy.

• The 2026 Winter Olympics will be held in Cortina, Italy.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The program anticipates future opportunities to showcase Air Force and Space Force athletes on home soil at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2032 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah.