The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics concluded on February 22, 2026, with China securing its strongest performance at an overseas Winter Games. The 17-day event, marked by groundbreaking athletic achievements and cultural celebrations, ended with a vibrant closing ceremony at Verona Arena, blending Italy's rich musical heritage with modern artistry.
Norway dominated the medal tally with 32 total medals, followed by the United States and the Netherlands. Host nation Italy made history with its highest-ever Winter Olympics ranking, securing fourth place through 10 gold medals and 30 total podium finishes.
China's 126-athlete delegation delivered a landmark performance, earning 15 medals (5 gold, 4 silver, 6 bronze) – matching its Beijing 2022 total and setting a new benchmark for overseas Winter Games participation. Athletes excelled in short-track speed skating, freestyle skiing, and the newly added ski mountaineering discipline.
International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry praised the Games' innovative dual-host model, which utilized venues across Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. The event's success reinforces Asia's growing influence in winter sports ahead of the 2030 Winter Olympics host selection later this year.
