The Olympic Games feature the best of the best in their respective sports, giving athletes a chance every four years to compete at the highest level. At Wednesday morning's cross-country skiing event, there was a surprise -- and wildly adorable -- new addition to the field.
As competitors raced as part of the women's team free sprint qualification, a fluffy interloper made its way onto the course. A large dog joined the race, galloping down the final stretch and crossing the finish line before sniffing the competition. The pup looked absolutely thrilled at the prospect of racing, even though it was lacking in the required ski gear.
Naturally, the dog became a huge hit. The crowd loved the addition to the skiing event, and the NBC broadcast was no different, even giving the dog the photo-finish treatment as it crossed the finish line.
DOG ON THE COURSE AT OLYMPIC SKIING. 🚨
— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 18, 2026
The late entry closes strong at the cross country finish line! pic.twitter.com/o4mO28tXXW
An absolutely perfect pup and Olympic finisher. What an accomplishment.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Everyone loves the Olympic cross country skiing dog