Problems with train transport are not only in Slovakia. Belgian ski alpinist Maximilien Drion was supposed to be one of his country’s flag bearers at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Olympics, but he did not make it to the San Siro stadium in Milan in time.
The 28-year-old athlete is preparing for the Olympic race in Switzerland and was supposed to travel to the venue by train from there.
“I’m very sorry, but I won’t make it to the opening ceremony. One of my trains was canceled, so I couldn’t get to Milan. I’m already on my way home, I’ll watch the opening ceremony from there and I’ll be with the Belgian team with all my heart,” said Drion on the social network.
His discipline is not scheduled until February 19, so even according to the original plans, he was supposed to return to Switzerland the day after the opening ceremony.
The Belgians could not appoint a substitute flag bearer for Drion, so only the short track athlete Hanne Desmetová carried their flag at the opening ceremony.
“Hanne is a strong woman and I’m sure she can handle it herself,” commented Drion.
“Thank you for your support in this less than ideal moment, but I believe that I have exhausted my bad luck with this and I will concentrate only on my race,” concluded the Belgian ski mountaineer.
