An inside look at Israel’s historic entry into 2026 Olympic Bobsleigh competition

In a recent interview with Christian journalist Paul Calvert, Israeli Olympic bobsleigh pilot Adam “AJ” Edelman reflected on the historic achievement of qualifying Israel for the Winter Olympics (2026) bobsleigh competition for the first time, describing it as a milestone not only for himself but for the nation.

“I'm really proud for the country,” Edelman said. “I mean, the country has done something here that is rarely ever done anymore – which is a new country breaking into the Olympic bobsled family. It's just quite a stunning accomplishment.”

He told Calvert about the long and demanding journey to reach this year’s Winter Olympics in Italy, noting that the sport itself carries significant risks. Edelman described frequent crashes and speeds exceeding 135 km/h (84 mph), underscoring the precision and skill required to compete safely.

This year's competition was not the team's first attempt at reaching the Olympic stage.

After narrowly missing qualification by 0.1 seconds during the previous Olympic cycle (2020-2022), he was determined to finish what he began, traveling internationally to train in Germany, Norway, and North America, while spending the off-season focused on sprinting and strength training.

Edelman views the team’s success as a catalyst for change in communities that have not traditionally prioritized athletic participation. Sport, he said, can be a vehicle for development, discipline, and self-expression. At the core of his motivation is the desire to set an example for others and expand how sport is viewed within Israel.

When asked about the importance of feeling supported by the Israeli public, he said, “Oh, it means everything. That's why we do what we do, right? The team was started to have an impact, to create an impact and set an example of what we could do in sport...So it really warms my heart."

Edelman believes that even if individual athletes are forgotten, Israel’s presence in the sport will remain significant.

He also reflected on the deeper sense of purpose behind his journey, describing what he called a tafkid (תפקיד) – the Hebrew word meaning a spiritual role or calling. Edelman sees this as a responsibility to serve as an example for young people in his community and demonstrate what is possible through perseverance and purposeful action.

Earlier in his career, Edelman recalled, a coach bluntly told him he would never succeed.

“You’ll never, ever make the Olympic Games. And you’re not what we would call athletic.”

Instead of discouraging him, that moment became a turning point. Today, Edelman says his motivation has shifted, focusing less on proving himself to the doubters and more on personal growth and transformation, adding,. “It's about being the best version of myself.”

Click below to to listen to AJ Edelman's full interview with Paul Calvert.