The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is coming to an exciting end as athletes deliver historic performances, nations celebrate major medal wins, and the world prepares for a grand closing ceremony. From record-breaking achievements to emotional final moments, the last day of the Games has been full of action, pride, and unforgettable stories.
Record-Breaking Performances Steal the Spotlight
The biggest headline of the Games came from Norway’s cross-country star Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo, who created history by winning six gold medals at a single Winter Olympics — the highest ever by any athlete in one edition.
Team USA also made history by achieving its best-ever Winter Olympic gold medal tally, including a key victory in the mixed team aerials event. The strong performance reflects the country’s growing strength across multiple winter sports.
Meanwhile, China delivered its best overseas Winter Olympics performance, winning 13 medals (4 gold, 3 silver, 6 bronze) — breaking its previous record of 11 medals set in earlier editions.
China’s Strong Medal Run Highlights Growing Power
China’s success was built on consistent performances in snow sports and historic achievements on ice.
Key Highlights for China
- Freestyle skiing aerials:
- Xu Mengtao defended her Olympic title
- Wang Xindi won gold in men’s aerials
- The couple became a rare husband-wife Olympic gold-winning pair
- Snowboard:
- Su Yiming won gold in men’s slopestyle and bronze in big air
- Freestyle skiing:
- Gu Ailing won two silver medals
- Speed skating breakthrough:
- Ning Zhongyan won gold in the men’s 1500m and set an Olympic record — China’s first-ever gold in the event
However, there were concerns in traditional strong areas:
- Short track speed skating produced only one silver
- Figure skating failed to win any medal
These results show both progress and areas that need improvement for future Olympic cycles.
Canada’s Mixed but Successful Final Weekend
Canada added important medals on the final weekend:
Major Results
- Men’s Curling: Gold (Brad Jacobs-led team)
- Women’s Curling: Bronze (Rachel Homan team)
- Speed Skating:
- Ivanie Blondin won silver in the mass start
- Earlier, she also won gold in team pursuit
Canada’s curling victory was especially significant, marking the nation’s first men’s Olympic gold in the sport since 2014.
However, there was also disappointment:
- Freeski star Cassie Sharpe was ruled out of the halfpipe final after a crash during qualification.
USA vs Canada Set for Olympic Hockey Gold Clash
One of the most anticipated events of the final day is the men’s ice hockey gold medal match between Team USA and Team Canada.
Match Details
| Event | USA vs Canada Men’s Hockey Final |
|---|---|
| Date | February 22 |
| Time | 8:10 a.m. ET |
| USA Goal | First gold since 1980 |
| Canada Goal | Continue Olympic dominance |
The rivalry adds extra drama, especially with uncertainty over Canadian captain Sidney Crosby’s fitness after a lower-body injury.
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Final Day: What’s Left to Watch
By the end of Day 15, 111 of 116 events had been completed. The remaining highlights include:
- Men’s hockey gold medal game
- Women’s curling final
- Cross-country skiing 50km race
- Freeski halfpipe final
- Closing Ceremony
Legendary U.S. cross-country skier Jessie Diggins is also set to compete in her final Olympic race.
Figure Skating Gala Brings Emotional Goodbye
The traditional Exhibition Gala featured top skaters including:
- Alysa Liu (Olympic champion)
- Ilia Malinin
- Madison Chock & Evan Bates
The event allowed athletes to perform creatively without judging, celebrating the artistic side of the sport.
Grand Closing Ceremony in Verona
The Games will officially end with a spectacular closing ceremony.
Ceremony Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | February 22 |
| Time | 2:30 p.m. ET |
| Venue | Verona Arena |
| Broadcast | NBC & Streaming platforms |
The ceremony will honor athletes’ achievements and mark the emotional conclusion of the Milano Cortina Olympics.
Special Performances
- Major Lazer (Diplo) live set
- Italian artists including Achille Lauro
- Surprise guest appearances expected
Overall Olympic Overview
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Total Events | 116 |
| Completed (Day 15) | 111 |
| Record Performance | Klaebo – 6 gold medals |
| USA Achievement | Most golds in nation’s Winter Olympics history |
| China Achievement | Best overseas medal haul (13 medals) |
| Final Day Focus | Hockey final, last medal events, closing ceremony |
What Made Milano Cortina 2026 Special
The Games showcased:
- Historic individual performances
- Emerging winter sports talent
- Strong competition between traditional powers
- Emotional career finales
- Growing global participation
From record-breaking moments to dramatic finals, Milano Cortina 2026 delivered one of the most memorable Winter Olympics in recent history.
Read more: 2026 Winter Olympics Ice Hockey Semifinals
As the Olympic flame prepares to go out in Verona, Milano Cortina 2026 will be remembered for historic achievements, fierce rivalries, and inspiring performances. With new records set and new stars emerging, the Games have once again shown the spirit of global competition and excellence that defines the Olympics.
FAQs
When is the Milano Cortina 2026 Closing Ceremony?
February 22 at 2:30 p.m. ET at Verona Arena.
Who has been the biggest star of the Games?
Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo, with a record six gold medals.
What is the biggest event on the final day?
The men’s ice hockey gold medal match between USA and Canada.
How many medals did China win?
China finished with 13 medals, its best overseas performance.
What historic achievement did Team USA reach?
Team USA recorded its highest-ever number of gold medals at a Winter Olympics.
