Mikaela Shiffrin opens up about her biggest supporter: fiancé Aleksander Kilde

As Mikaela Shiffrin continues her remarkable journey back toward full strength ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, the two-time Olympic gold medalist has been increasingly vocal about the role her fiancé, Norwegian alpine skiing champion Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, has played in her life — both on and off the slopes.

Shiffrin, widely regarded as one of the greatest alpine skiers ever, has faced one of the most challenging periods of her career over the past year. After a frightening crash during a giant slalom World Cup race in November 2024 that nearly punctured her colon, she spent months battling through physical rehab and the psychological impact of returning to elite competition. Throughout that journey, Kilde has been a constant source of encouragement and emotional support.

A bond forged through shared struggles

Their relationship — which became official in 2024 and has since led to an engagement — is unique in the world of elite sport: two top athletes at the peak of their disciplines, each facing their own battles with injury and recovery. Shiffrin has said that having someone who truly understands the demands and pressures of Alpine racing has made all the difference during her recovery from injury setbacks and her preparation for the upcoming Games.

Kilde himself endured a harrowing crash during a downhill race in January 2024 at Wengen, Switzerland. The fall resulted in multiple surgeries and a prolonged rehabilitation that sidelined him for nearly two seasons. His return to World Cup competition late in 2025 was one of the most emotional moments in recent skiing history, not least because Shiffrin was there to witness it — her eyes visibly filled with emotion as she greeted him at the finish line in Colorado.

That moment encapsulates the mutual support that defines their partnership. Rather than drifting apart during long stretches of recovery and disjointed race calendars, they have leaned on one another, sharing both challenges and triumphs. Their relationship has become a source of strength that complements their competitive drive.

Long-distance challenges amid busy schedules

Despite their closeness, Shiffrin and Kilde’s careers mean they spend significant time apart, often racing in different locations and on separate circuits. That has required patience, understanding and constant communication — from FaceTiming between venues to offering tips gleaned from their own training and competition experiences.

Shiffrin has described this long-distance aspect of their relationship as one of its biggest challenges, especially during grueling World Cup seasons. At times, they are competing thousands of miles apart, yet the two remain deeply connected, supporting each other’s goals and setbacks with unwavering loyalty.

A partnership rooted in shared respect

Speaking about their relationship, Shiffrin has emphasised that Kilde doesn’t just support her personally — he also respects her as a competitor and as a person. Their connection isn’t based on clichés or superficial support; it’s grounded in shared experiences at the highest levels of their sport. They talk about skiing, life, and the mental game nearly as much as they talk about each other’s emotional wellbeing.

In interviews and social media posts, their mutual admiration is evident. Kilde has publicly celebrated Shiffrin’s milestones, including her historic 100th World Cup win, often sharing heartfelt messages that highlight not just her athletic achievements, but the person she is outside competition.

Facing the Olympics together — even apart

With the Milano-Cortina Games approaching, both athletes are focused on peak performance. Shiffrin is preparing for her signature technical events, while Kilde is working to regain his speed event credentials and secure an Olympic spot. Although the Olympic schedule and venues mean they may not be able to physically support each other on the hill — especially given men’s and women’s events are on different courses — they have made plans to be together in spirit and in the athletes’ village whenever possible.

Their approach reflects a modern athletic partnership built on empathy, respect and shared ambition. Rather than shy away from the pressures that come with being two of skiing’s biggest stars, they appear to embrace those challenges together.

Life beyond competition

Outside of training and racing, their life together continues to flourish. Shiffrin recently launched her own podcast, which promises candid conversations that include insights into her personal life and motivation — and her fiancé may well make an appearance.

Their shared experiences — from navigating injuries and long distances to celebrating life’s big moments — have helped shape who they are as athletes and as partners. While fans eagerly anticipate what either might achieve individually this season and at the Olympics, many are equally invested in the story of their partnership.

In a sport where competitors often feel isolated by the demands of elite performance, Shiffrin and Kilde’s relationship stands out as an example of mutual strength and resilience. For Shiffrin, talking about her fiancé isn’t just a personal reflection — it’s an acknowledgment that love and support off the snow can be as impactful as training and technique on it.