Arctic Winter Games to proceed amid Greenland tensions
A northern gathering under a global spotlight
The Arctic Winter Games are set to open in Whitehorse, Yukon, in early March, bringing together athletes from across northern and circumpolar regions. Competitors are expected from Alaska, northern Canada, and Greenland, with more than 200 Greenlandic athletes alone scheduled to attend.
While anticipation around the event continues to build, international attention has shifted toward Greenland following remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who publicly discussed the idea of taking control of the territory and did not rule out the use of military force.
According to CBC News, those comments have sparked concern across the Arctic region, particularly given the timing so close to a major international sporting event.
Organizers keep focus on the event
Despite the political backdrop, Arctic Winter Games organizers say there are no plans to alter or cancel the competition.
Read also: From a U.S. detour to the Bundesliga fast lane: Yan Diomande’s unlikely rise
John Rodda, president of the Arctic Winter Games International Committee, said the Games will go ahead as scheduled. Speaking to CBC News, Rodda emphasized that speculation and political rhetoric have not translated into tangible risks for the event.
He added that while he remains aware of global developments through personal and professional connections in the circumpolar world, the committee’s priority remains athlete safety and logistical preparation.
Rodda, an American, has been involved with the Games since 1974 and has overseen multiple editions during periods of international uncertainty.
Past experience with political disruption
The Arctic Winter Games have previously been affected by geopolitical events. In 2022, the international committee suspended the Russian delegation following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Read also: New US bans cloud 2026 World Cup access
At the time, the committee said the decision reflected an ongoing commitment to youth safety, legal compliance, and the integrity of the Games, according to a statement reported by CBC News. That suspension remains in effect.
Organizers say the current situation involving Greenland does not present the same level of concern or require similar action.
Greenland confirms participation
Sports officials in Greenland have also sought to reassure athletes and families. Claus Nielson, president of the Sports Confederation of Greenland, said there are no plans to withdraw from the Games.
In a statement reported by CBC News, Nielson said Greenlandic athletes and coaches have no concerns about traveling to Whitehorse and remain fully committed to participating in the 2026 Games.
Read also: Ronaldo still no.1 as Sportico releases 2025 earnings rankings
Whitehorse prepares for March return
The Games are scheduled to begin on March 8, marking the fifth time Whitehorse has hosted the event. The city was previously set to host in 2020, but those Games were cancelled just days before the opening ceremony due to the COVID 19 pandemic.
Local organizers say hosting the Games once again carries added significance, both as a celebration of northern sport and culture and as a signal of continuity despite global uncertainty.
Sources: CBC News, George Maratos
Read also: Kyle Tucker joins Dodgers in deal that reshapes baseball’s power balance
Read also: IOC responds to Olympic ban speculation following Trump-led tensions
