Slettemark siblings selected for the Olympics

Ukaleq and Sondre Slettemark can hardly wait. After the last counting races at the World Cup in Ruhpolding, it is now clear – the 2026 Olympics await.

The two siblings have already met the qualification requirements, and the official selection to Denmark – and thus the Commonwealth – will be just a formality.

- It's really cool, and we're really looking forward to it. Antholz is a fantastic place, and just the thought of going to the Olympics there makes my stomach churn, says Ukaleq Slettemark with obvious excitement.

The men's and women's events at the 2026 Winter Olympics will be held in Antholz, an internationally renowned biathlon center in the autonomous province of South Tyrol, Italy. The Winter Olympics will take place from February 6 to 22.

For Greenland, Denmark and the Commonwealth

Ukaleq Slettemark participated in the Winter Olympics in Beijing in 2022, but the 2026 Olympics will still be something very special for the Greenlandic biathlete.

- We are standing under the Danish flag and representing the Danish Realm, and that means a lot to us. We want to mark Greenland internationally and at the same time show that we stand strong together with Denmark, says Ukaleq.

According to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), participating nations must be recognized as independent states by the UN. Since Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, participation will therefore take place under the Danish flag. And although Ukaleq Slettemark would prefer to see the Greenlandic flag adorn her costume, she is nevertheless happy that it is the Danish flag – and not the American one – that is represented.

- It is important for us to send a very clear signal to the USA that we in no way want to be part of the USA. Our choice is Greenland, Denmark and the Commonwealth, says Ukaleq in a firm and emphatic voice that leaves no doubt about her sincerity.

The reason why the representation this year has taken on a special significance for the Greenlandic biathletes is connected to the political reality outside of the sport. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that the US should own Greenland, and this debate has left clear traces. Although it is often emphasized that sports and politics should be kept separate, it is impossible for the Slettemark family to completely separate the two things in this situation. On the contrary, it is extra fulfilling to stand out as a Greenlandic athlete right now - and to represent their country, their people and their culture on the biggest international stage.

- It is incredibly frustrating to constantly have to deal with politics, but I will not just hide behind my sport. I will use the attention I get to show the world how proud we are of being Greenlanders – and how much it means to us to stand together with Denmark in the Commonwealth, says Ukaleq in a voice filled with commitment and pride.

Tunniit in the threads

Despite participating under the Danish flag, Ukaleq and Sondre have been allowed to wear their Greenlandic competition uniforms – something that means an incredible amount to them.

- The costume is inspired by Tunniit, the northern lights, and Erfalasorput, the Greenlandic flag. That way it becomes very clear where we come from, and I am really grateful for that, she explains.

Tunniit, the traditional Inuit tattoos, have deep roots in Inuit communities, both culturally and spiritually. That is why the costumes carry a special meaning for Ukaleq and Sondre as they perform on the world's biggest stage.

- The Danish Sports Federation also asked IUC if we could get a Greenlandic flag, but unfortunately that was not possible. Just the fact that DIF fought the case for us, means a lot, says Ukaleq before continuing:

"It really testifies to our strong collaboration," she says with a smile in her voice.

Although qualifying for the Winter Olympics marks a high point in their careers, it hasn't slowed the Slettemark siblings down. Right now, they're racing towards yet another competition in Novo Mesto, Czech Republic – but amidst the constant travel, they can't help but miss their homeland a little more.

- It is clear that the longing is great right now, and that we are a little extra homesick at this time with all the attention Greenland is receiving. But we will be returning to Greenland at the end of March, and I am looking forward to that, says Ukaleq, before she concludes with a warm heart:

- Then we'll go out into the fjord in our cabin and eat mattak, she says, laughing at the homely thought.