Johannes Rydzek: The Veteran Spearhead of Germany’s Nordic Combined Quest in 2026
PREDAZZO, 11 February 2026 — As the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games reach a fever pitch, all eyes in the Val di Fiemme are on Johannes Rydzek. The 34-year-old veteran, a cornerstone of German winter sports for over a decade, is once again at the heart of the action. With the Men’s Individual Normal Hill/10km event unfolding today, Wednesday, Rydzek remains a formidable contender in a discipline that demands both the precision of a ski jumper and the raw endurance of a cross-country skier.
A Fifth Olympic Chapter in Italy
Johannes Rydzek’s presence at the 2026 Winter Olympics marks his fifth appearance at the Games, a testament to his longevity in one of the most physically demanding sports on the planet. Having debuted in Vancouver 2010, Rydzek has transitioned from a young prodigy to the elder statesman of the German squad, led by head coach and former teammate Eric Frenzel.
In the lead-up to today’s competition, Rydzek showed consistent form during training sessions in Predazzo. While teammate and defending champion Vinzenz Geiger was forced to sit out recent practice rounds due to knee discomfort, Rydzek stepped up, delivering solid jumps that ranked him 7th, 13th, and 8th across three rounds. His ability to maintain composure under the pressure of the Olympic spotlight remains his greatest asset.
The Rydzek Family Legacy
The 2026 Games are a family affair for the Rydzeks. Johannes is joined in Italy by his younger sister, Coletta Rydzek, who is competing in the cross-country skiing events. The siblings, both representing SC Oberstdorf, have become a focal point for German media, embodying the “family support” spirit at the Lago di Tesero tracks.
Career Highlights and Statistics
Rydzek’s trophy cabinet is among the most decorated in Nordic Combined history. His “Grand Slam” performance at the 2017 World Championships, where he won four gold medals, remains a benchmark for the sport.
| Event | Location | Medal/Result | Discipline |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Winter Olympics | Pyeongchang | Gold | Large Hill / 10km |
| 2018 Winter Olympics | Pyeongchang | Gold | Team Large Hill / 4x5km |
| 2014 Winter Olympics | Sochi | Silver | Team Large Hill / 4x5km |
| 2010 Winter Olympics | Vancouver | Bronze | Team Large Hill / 4x5km |
| World Championships 2017 | Lahti | 4x Gold | Individual & Team Events |
| World Championships 2015 | Falun | 2x Gold | Individual & Team Events |
The Road to Milano Cortina
Entering the 2026 cycle, Rydzek’s role has evolved. While he is no longer the undisputed favourite against younger rivals like Julian Schmid or the Norwegian powerhouse Jarl Magnus Riiber, his tactical brilliance on the cross-country course (the “Loipe”) makes him a constant threat. Experts note that if Rydzek can remain within striking distance after the jumping portion on the Trampolino dal Ben, his sprint finish is still among the best in the world.
Technical Profile
- Height: 178 cm
- Weight: 68 kg
- Club: SC Oberstdorf
- Education: Student of Industrial Engineering
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many Olympic medals has Johannes Rydzek won?
Prior to the 2026 Games, Johannes Rydzek had won four Olympic medals: two golds (2018), one silver (2014), and one bronze (2010).
Is Johannes Rydzek still competing in 2026?
Yes, Johannes Rydzek is an active competitor for Germany at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, participating in the Nordic Combined events held in Val di Fiemme.
Who is Johannes Rydzek’s sister?
His sister is Coletta Rydzek, an elite cross-country skier who is also competing for Germany at the 2026 Winter Games.
Where was Johannes Rydzek born?
He was born on 9 December 1991 in Oberstdorf, Bavaria, Germany.