From holding rooms to flag-waving moments, watch as Matthew Smith takes South Africans behind the scenes of Team SA’s unforgettable Winter Olympics opening ceremony.
Milano Cortina, Italy (09 February 2026) – When Team South Africa stepped into the spotlight at the Winter Olympics in Italy, cross-country skier Matthew Smith made sure fans back home felt like they were right there with him. Nicknamed “The Snowbok”, Matthew took South Africans along for a behind-the-scenes look at the opening ceremony. From pre-parade nerves to unforgettable moments of sportsmanship on the world stage.
The journey began long before the stadium lights. Matthew captured the buzz backstage as athletes from across the globe gathered, swapped smiles and showed off outfits that were very much part of the moment.
Seeing all the different team members link up brought pure excitement; the atmosphere felt less intimidating and more like a global celebration of sport.
As the teams moved through the organisation quickly stood out. Buses arrived, volunteers guided athletes with ease, and it became clear this was a well-oiled Olympic machine. Along the way, we see Matthew cross paths with athletes from countries like Saudi Arabia, Mongolia, Venezuela and Spain.
The nerves peaked when the flags were handed out. For Matthew, that moment came with an unexpected and powerful show of support, as the Swiss team cheered him on while he prepared to walk out. It was a simple gesture, but one that captured the spirit of the Games.
Away from the ceremony, he (and the rest of Team South Africa) is preparing to compete against the world’s best.
For South Africans wanting to follow Team SA’s Winter Olympics journey and find out how to watch the Games locally, details are available here.
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