At 40 years old, Kaillie Humphries is scripting what could be one of the most remarkable chapters in Olympic history. The legendary bobsledder, already a multiple medalist for two different countries, is now targeting the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina just months after welcoming her first child. Her powerful return to the World Cup podium signals that she is a serious contender to watch.
From Calgary to Global Dominance: A Champion's Journey
Born in Calgary, Kaillie Humphries first rose to fame representing Canada. She established herself as the sport's benchmark by clinching gold in the two-woman bobsled at the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics, followed by a bronze in 2018. Her career took a dramatic turn in 2019 when she switched nationalities to compete for the United States.
This move led to another historic achievement at the Beijing 2022 Winter Games. Humphries won gold in the inaugural women's monobob event, thereby becoming the first woman to win Olympic gold medals for two different nations. This feat cemented her status as one of bobsledding's all-time greats.
Motherhood and a Meteoric Return to the Ice
In June 2024, Kaillie Humphries and her husband, former bobsledder Travis Armbruster, welcomed their son, Aulden. Humphries took a planned break from competition throughout her pregnancy to focus on this new chapter. However, her time away from the sport was brief.
Demonstrating incredible athleticism and determination, she returned to elite training later in the same year. Her comeback was swift and emphatic. Recently, Humphries secured her first World Cup victory since 2023 in the two-woman event, sending a clear message to the world: she has lost none of her competitive edge.
The Road to Milan-Cortina: A Fifth Olympic Quest
With the 2026 Winter Olympics less than two years away, Humphries is gathering momentum at the perfect time. The upcoming Games will be significant for multiple reasons: it will be her fifth Olympic appearance and her first time competing at the Games as a mother.
Whether or not she adds another medal to her legendary collection, her journey back to the pinnacle of sport after maternity has already reshaped expectations for athlete mothers. Her recovery and immediate success have made her path to Milan-Cortina one of the most compelling narratives leading up to the 2026 Winter Olympics. The world will be watching to see if this champion can break yet another barrier.
