Samuel Costa: “The passion for the sport is still the same”

Italian Nordic Combined athlete Samuel Costa has decided to return to top-level competition after announcing his retirement at the end of the 2024 season. The 32-year-old, who debuted in the World Cup in Val di Fiemme in 2012 and earned his first individual podium in Seefeld in 2017, is now targeting the Milano‑Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at home.

Costa explains that two factors drove his comeback: the encouragement of the right people around him and a newfound appreciation for the value of the Olympic Games, which he says he fully realized only recently. A Team Sprint victory with Raffaele Buzzi in Chaux‑Neuve this summer reinforced his belief that the return was the right choice and provided a timely boost of confidence.

Reflecting on his Olympic experiences in Sochi 2014 and Beijing 2022, Costa admits they were not personally successful—citing overtraining before Sochi and preparation issues linked to vaccination status before Beijing. Looking at the sport today, he says Nordic Combined has become significantly more professional and equipment‑sensitive, which can challenge smaller nations. Personally, he feels he has changed a lot since his early years: the sport no longer defines his identity, yet his passion remains intact.

Costa has also stepped away from social media, describing it as a relief that frees time and energy for training and life, even if he recognizes its value for sharing. Regarding Italy’s recent struggles, he emphasizes the collective effort within a strong team and staff, expressing optimism for the season ahead as the squad builds momentum toward 2026.