Giada D'Antonio is competing in her first Olympic Games. © Pentaphoto

Because of her skiing prodigy: Brignone's mother sparks controversy

On Tuesday, Italy's skiing prodigy Giada D'Antonio will make her first appearance at the Olympic Games. The event has been the subject of controversy.

February 10, 2026

From: det

Maria Rosa Quario is known for speaking her mind. And so the mother of superstar Federica Brignone freely expressed her thoughts when she was told by Radio Me too When asked about Giada D'Antonio's Olympic nomination, the 16-year-old from Naples is considered a huge skiing talent, and experts predict a great future for her. Therefore, Italy's Winter Sports Federation nominated the young skier for the Olympic Games, where she will compete in the team combined event on Tuesday.

Quario was not happy with the nomination. "I don't want to cause controversy, but I don't agree with this decision. This girl has enormous talent, a fantastic future ahead of her, has shown that she is both technically and mentally strong, but she doesn't have the necessary credentials to be nominated for the Olympic Games," said Brignone's mother.

Federica Brignone (left) with mother Maria Rosa Quario.

Quario further explains: “This could backfire on her. Perhaps she will surprise us, but in the competitions she has participated in, she has never been able to prevail against other girls from the European Cup team. Why her and not a girl from the 2002 age group? To be honest, I can't understand this decision.”

D'Antonio's mother counters

Sandra, Giada D'Antonio's mother, disagrees in an interview with the Journal of Sport On the other hand, she said, “I know there are athletes with more experience. To everyone who expresses an opinion on these nominations, I send my best wishes. Giada is still young and has to find her own way. I hope she becomes a role model who gives many young people a perspective: she managed to go from Naples to skiing all the way to the Olympic Games…”