Swiss Olympians - the solo specialists

When it comes to Swiss Olympic athletes, one trend in the data is particularly striking: There are no team players. That's not a value judgement. While Swiss cycling, sailing and horse-riding competitors comprise an important share of the Swiss delegation in Rio, none will compete in team sports like basketball, football or water-polo. For "team sport", we used the International Olympic Committee classification. Swimming, rowing, and track and field also have team components at the Olympics, but they are not designated as team sports. Switzerland’s delegation of 103 athletes carries hopes of bringing home at least five medals. Almost three-quarters will be taking part in their first Olympics, while cyclist Fabian Cancellara will be enjoying his fifth Games. The biggest Swiss hopes during the August 5-21 competitions are in rowing, road cycling, fencing, gymnastics, horse riding, and mountain bike disciplines. More than 11,000 athletes representing the nations of the world are ...