The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics witnessed history on Sunday as Italy’s alpine skiing star Federica Brignone and Norway’s cross-country legend Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo etched their names into the record books in contrasting yet equally spectacular fashion.
While Brignone delivered an emotional comeback story on home snow in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Klaebo became the most successful Winter Olympian of all time with his ninth gold medal. From breathtaking alpine runs in the Dolomites to dominant relay performances on cross-country tracks, it was a day that redefined greatness at the Winter Games.
Federica Brignone: Queen of the Dolomites
Competing at her home Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Federica Brignone completed a sensational sequel to her super-G gold by winning the women’s giant slalom. At 35, she not only secured her second gold medal of the Milan Cortina Games but also became the oldest women’s Olympic champion in Alpine skiing history — breaking her own record in the process.
Just three days earlier, Brignone described her super-G triumph as something “out of a Hollywood movie.” What do great movies get? A sequel. And that sequel was even better.
She led after the first run by 0.34 seconds and delivered a flawless second run on the sunlit Olympia delle Tofane course, finishing 0.62 seconds ahead of her closest rivals.
A Comeback From Pain and Surgery
Brignone’s victory was not just about speed — it was about resilience. In March last year, she broke multiple bones in her left leg, requiring two surgeries, 42 stitches, a metal plate, and screws to repair the damage. She couldn’t walk for three months and only returned to competitive skiing in January.
Despite constant pain, she powered through both runs with unmatched precision. After crossing the finish line and realizing she had secured gold, the atmosphere turned electric. Italian fans chanted “FE-de, FE-de” as their hero celebrated an unforgettable achievement.
She now has five career Olympic medals — two golds, one silver, and two bronzes — solidifying her legacy in Alpine skiing history.
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Silver Medalists Bow in Respect
In a rare and emotional Olympic moment, Sweden’s Sara Hector and Norway’s Thea Louise Stjernesund finished in exactly the same time, sharing the silver medal.
After the race, both athletes approached Brignone in the finish area, dropped to their knees, and bowed toward her — a gesture of admiration and respect for her remarkable comeback and dominance.
It was a powerful symbol of sportsmanship and recognition of Brignone’s extraordinary performance on home snow.
Mikaela Shiffrin Finishes 11th
American superstar Mikaela Shiffrin finished 11th in the giant slalom, 0.92 seconds behind Brignone.
Shiffrin has now gone eight straight Olympic races without a medal since the 2018 Winter Games. Despite missing the podium, she remained optimistic, noting that she was within 0.30 seconds of second place. Her strongest event, the slalom, could still offer redemption later in the Games.
Even in defeat, Shiffrin’s positive attitude reflected her champion mindset.
Johannes Klaebo: The Greatest Winter Olympian Ever
While Brignone thrilled the Italian crowd, Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo made global history. Anchoring Norway’s cross-country men’s relay team, Klaebo captured his ninth career Olympic gold medal — the most by any Winter Olympian in history.
With that victory, he surpassed Norwegian legends:
- Marit Bjoergen
- Bjoern Daehlie
- Ole Einar Bjoerndalen
All three previously held the record with eight gold medals.
At just 29 years old, Klaebo could reach double digits before the Games conclude. He has upcoming opportunities in the team sprint and the 50-kilometer race, potentially extending his historic tally.
His dominance confirms Norway’s continued supremacy in cross-country skiing.
Moguls Glory for Mikael Kingsbury
Canada’s moguls king Mikael Kingsbury added another chapter to his decorated career.
After winning silver in traditional moguls earlier in the Games, Kingsbury captured gold in the inaugural dual moguls event. This marked his fifth Olympic medal and further strengthened his reputation as one of freestyle skiing’s all-time greats.
His consistency across Olympic cycles highlights his elite skill and longevity in the sport.
Speed Skating Drama: Kok Beats Leerdam
In women’s 1,000-meter speed skating, Dutch skater Femke Kok claimed gold ahead of teammate Jutta Leerdam, who settled for silver.
Japan’s Miho Takagi finished third, while defending champion Erin Jackson placed fifth.
The Dutch dominance in speed skating once again proved why the Netherlands remains a powerhouse in ice racing events.
Historic Gold for Britain
Team snowboardcross delivered a landmark achievement for Great Britain. Charlotte Bankes and Huw Nightingale secured Britain’s first-ever Olympic gold in a snow sport.
Hours later, Britain celebrated another gold in team skeleton, marking a breakthrough day for British winter sports.
Biathlon Breakthrough for Italy
Italy celebrated more success as Lisa Vittozzi claimed her first Olympic gold in the women’s pursuit event.
Earlier in the day, Sweden’s Martin Ponsiluoma delivered a surprise victory in the men’s biathlon race.
The biathlon events added further excitement and diversity to an already historic Sunday at Milan Cortina 2026.
Curling Controversy Rocks the Ice
While many events celebrated sporting excellence, curling faced controversy over “double-touching” violations — when a player touches a stone again after releasing it.
An emotional outburst from Canada’s Marc Kennedy highlighted the tension after an accusation against Sweden. On Sunday, the British men’s team also had a stone removed due to the same violation.
The controversy has sparked debate about rule enforcement and technology use in curling.
Hockey Action Heats Up
In men’s ice hockey, Canada dominated France with a 10-2 victory. The United States faced Germany later, aiming to secure a quarterfinal berth.
The hockey tournament continues to build momentum as knockout stages approach.
Milan Cortina 2026: A Games of Emotion and Legacy
The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics have already delivered unforgettable narratives:
- A comeback queen in Brignone.
- A record-breaking legend in Klaebo.
- Historic firsts for Britain and Italy.
- Emotional sportsmanship moments.
- Emerging controversies in curling.
From the snow-covered Dolomites to the cross-country tracks and skating rinks, these Games are blending drama, resilience, and history.
Brignone’s story symbolizes courage and perseverance — competing in constant pain yet delivering gold for her nation. Klaebo’s record-breaking achievement demonstrates sustained excellence at the highest level.
As the Games continue, the world watches to see whether Klaebo reaches ten gold medals and whether Shiffrin can find redemption in slalom. One thing is certain: Milan Cortina 2026 is already one of the most memorable Winter Olympics in history.
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