Tesero, Italy – A spirited two-year-old Czechoslovakian wolfdog named Nazgul bounded onto the snow-packed course during the women’s team cross-country sprint qualification at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, sprinting alongside skiers to cross the finish line.[1][2]
An Unlikely Competitor Emerges
The incident unfolded on February 18 at the Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium in Lago di Tesero, Val di Fiemme. Nazgul appeared near the homestretch as Croatian skier Tena Hadzic approached the finish during a qualifying heat. The wolfdog paused briefly, eyed the scene, then dashed forward with impressive speed.[3]
Officials and volunteers quickly collared the intruder after he crossed the line, but not before he sniffed the exhausted athletes and accepted pets from staff. The moment, captured by the Omega Scan’O’Vision photofinish camera, lit up screens worldwide and sparked cheers from the crowd.[4]
No top contenders remained on the course, so the race proceeded without disruption to medal hopes. Still, the dog’s surge added an unforgettable twist to the morning’s action.
Athletes Grapple with the Surprise
Tena Hadzic, 21, confronted the wolfdog head-on during her push to the line. She later recounted her shock: “I was like, ‘Am I hallucinating?’ I don’t know what I should do, because maybe he could attack me, bite me.”[2]
Greek skier Konstantina Charalampopoulou described Nazgul as “cute but not aggressive,” noting he seemed to chase the finish-line camera. She wished she could pet him but had no chance amid the race.[3]
Hadzic admitted the distraction cost her seconds, though she was not in medal contention. “It’s not that big a deal,” she said, but warned it could prove costly in finals.[1]
Inside Nazgul’s World
The wolfdog resides at a nearby bed-and-breakfast with owners related to an event official, who spoke anonymously. They revealed Nazgul cried unusually that morning as they departed, likely prompting his pursuit. “He always looks for people,” one owner explained.[2]
Described as stubborn yet sweet, Nazgul returned home unharmed after officials escorted him off. His breed, known for endurance and wolf-like traits, suited the snowy terrain perfectly.
- Breed: Czechoslovakian wolfdog, blending husky stamina with wolf agility.
- Age: 2 years, prime for playful escapades.
- Home: Local hotel near the stadium, explaining easy access.
- Motivation: Seemed drawn to crowds and cameras rather than competition.
Olympic Race Highlights Remain Intact
Sweden’s Jonna Sundling and Maja Dahlqvist topped qualifying in 6:29.94, advancing strong. Team USA’s Jessie Diggins and Julia Kern placed seventh, 19.49 seconds back, before climbing to fifth in finals.[4]
The final delivered Sweden gold, Switzerland silver, and Germany bronze. Nazgul’s cameo injected joy without altering outcomes.
| Team | Qualifying Position | Final Result |
|---|---|---|
| Sweden | 1st (6:29.94) | Gold |
| USA | 7th | 5th |
| Switzerland | – | Silver |
| Germany | – | Bronze |
The viral clip underscored the Olympics’ lighter side amid intense rivalry.
Nazgul’s dash reminded millions that even elite events welcome spontaneous charm. As the Games continue, his story lingers as a testament to unscripted magic. What do you think about this furry Olympian? Tell us in the comments.
Key Takeaways
- Nazgul’s intrusion delighted fans without derailing the competition.
- Athletes like Hadzic balanced surprise with humor.
- The moment highlighted the breed’s athletic prowess on snow.
