The 2026 Winter Olympics took place in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Fans from countries all around the world tuned in on their TVs to keep up with the exciting competition in sports such as skiing, figure skating, snowboarding, and ice hockey. The games began on February 6 and concluded on February 22. There were around 2,900 athletes from 92 countries who participated in the Olympics this year.
According to Euro News, Norway dominated in the 2026 Winter Olympics with 41 medals in total, which included 18 gold medals. Behind Norway, the United States came close with 33 medals in total, 12 of which were gold medals. The United States especially stood out this year because of their outstanding performance with 12 gold medals–the most medals the United States has ever won in a single year. Carter Gaiss (12) expresses, “It was really cool to see countries break their own records because it demonstrates just how hard the athletes have been working for this outcome.”
Every single athlete delivered an amazing performance in their sport, but one of the most recognized athletes this year was Johannes Høsflot Klæbo who represented Norway. He participated in cross country skiing, in which he earned 6 gold medals. Johannes is now the athlete who has earned the most gold medals in a single game.
On team USA, Jordan Stolz is another Olympian who delivered an unbelievable performance in long distance speed skating where he set a new record in the 1000 meter. A few more notable Olympians include Chris Lillis and Kaila Khun, who are American freeskiers that received gold medals for the USA in their sport as well.
The USA ice hockey team also stood out in the Olympics during an intense finals game against Canada. Jack Hughes scored the overtime winning goal even after losing one of his front teeth during the finals game. It marked the USA’s first gold Olympic medal for ice hockey since the memorable “Miracle on Ice” in 1980. “The final game against Canada in ice hockey was amazing to watch live on TV because it was such an intense game,” Hasika Potluri (12) explains.
According to the International Olympic Committee, social media engagement has doubled since the 2022 Olympic games, making it one of the most viewed Winter Olympics in history. The 2026 Winter Olympics brought excitement, celebration, and unity for countries all over the world. The Winter Olympics continue to be a global event that many look forward to every four years.
