Denmark, Norway, Germany, Poland, Canada, and the USA. These nations are but a few of the media outlets vying for the attention of sibling biathletes Ukaleq and Sondre Slettemark as they prepare to represent Denmark at the Winter Olympics in Northern Italy.
Their appeal doesn’t stem solely from their prowess on the slopes, but rather from their roots in Greenland—a land currently in the spotlight following President Donald Trump’s controversial interest in purchasing the territory.
“We receive about four media inquiries every day, and there have been times with three or four interviews packed into a single day,” Ukaleq Slettemark shared. “It can be draining. We’ve discussed Trump and foreign policy extensively, and now we feel we’ve made our stance clear. It’s time to shift the focus back to our personal achievements and what we hope to achieve at the Olympics.”
Advocating for Greenland
Despite their desire to return to sporting matters, the Slettemarks recognize the importance of using their platform to advocate for Greenland.
“It’s crucial for us to defend our homeland and make our position clear,” Ukaleq emphasized, referencing the unanimous rejection of Trump’s proposition. “We feel a responsibility to voice our opinions whenever the opportunity arises,” added Sondre.
Greenland Achieves Olympic Milestone
With the participation of Sondre alongside Ukaleq, they will make history as the ninth Greenlandic skiers to compete for Denmark at the Winter Olympics. Here’s a brief overview of past Greenlandic Olympic participants:
- 1968: Apollo Lynge (cross-country skiing)
- 1992, 1994 & 1998: Michael Binzer (cross-country skiing)
- 1998: Arne Hardenberg (alpine skiing)
- 1998: Katrine Hvidsteen (cross-country skiing)
- 2010: Øystein Slettemark (biathlon)
- 2014 and 2018: Martin Møller (cross-country skiing)
- 2018: Laila Friis-Salling (freestyle skiing)
- 2022 and 2026: Ukaleq Slettemark (biathlon)
- 2026: Sondre Slettemark (biathlon)
Source: idan.dk and olympics.com
In an effort to strike a balance between media obligations and training, the siblings have strategically scheduled interviews to minimize interruptions in their preparations.
“Physically, it hasn’t hindered us, but mentally, it’s tough not to dwell on everything happening around us,” Ukaleq explained. “Right now, we’re focused—our sights are set squarely on the Olympics.”
Steering Clear of Controversy
As they gear up for the Games, the pair is mindful not to make headlines regarding U.S.-Greenland relations.
“We’ll engage with the press, but we won’t be out to create sensational stories,” Sondre affirmed.
This decision comes after Ukaleq recently described Trump as “a huge idiot” in an interview, a comment that drew significant media attention. “I stand by everything I’ve said, but we’re here for the Olympics now,” she added.
While they’ve indicated a willingness to discuss political topics with certain media, those conversations will take a backseat during the competition.
Honoring Family Legacy
“We’re not likely to make any more statements,” Ukaleq reiterated. Sondre chimed in, “Some have suggested we aim to leave a mark, but our greatest impact will be standing united with Denmark and representing the Commonwealth.”
The Danish Sports Confederation has granted them the freedom to express their thoughts during the Olympics, with guidelines urging caution at the opening and medal ceremonies. But outside of those, they are encouraged to speak openly, as Ukaleq stated.
As they look forward to the Winter Games, the achievements of their father, Øystein Slettemark, who represented the Commonwealth in 2010, loom large in their hearts. Despite their burgeoning sporting ambitions, they acknowledge the challenge ahead.
Progressing Towards the Podium
As an Olympic debutant, Sondre admits he hasn’t quite reached the same form this season as he did previously, but he senses improvement. “Training camp has shown an upward trajectory, and I hope to showcase my capabilities at the top level, even if a finish in the latter half seems more likely.”
Ukaleq, meanwhile, aspires to improve upon her Olympic debut from four years prior. “Results are, of course, dependent on the competition, but I have a small goal: qualifying for the chase round, which would require me to finish in the top 60 during the sprint.”
“Both of us can achieve that if we have a perfect day on our skis and hit 10 out of 10 shots,” Ukaleq concluded.
As the Winter Olympics approach, the Slettemark siblings are poised to showcase not just their athletic talents, but also their commitment to their heritage—a legacy worth sharing with the world.