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Norway, Canada Battle for Winter Olympics Lead

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/11 .. rway-canada-battle-for-winter-olympics-lead.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 19:39 GMT by WTOP News
      Locales: ITALY, CHINA, UNITED STATES

Milan-Cortina, Italy - February 12, 2026 - The Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina are entering their second week, and the competition is proving to be a thrilling blend of established dominance and unexpected upsets. As of today, February 12th, 2026, Norway and Canada are locked in a fierce battle for the top spot on the medal table, but the story of these games extends far beyond the gold medal count. Record attendance, coupled with some surprising performances from smaller nations, are defining this edition of the Winter Olympics.

The Leaders and the Chasers

Norway, a perennial powerhouse in winter sports, is currently leading the medal tally with an impressive 9 gold, 6 silver, and 4 bronze medals, totaling 19. Their continued success is largely fueled by their unwavering strength in cross-country skiing and biathlon, events where they consistently field world-class athletes. The Norwegian team appears to have perfected a training regimen and athlete development pipeline that consistently produces Olympic champions.

Canada is hot on their heels with 7 gold, 5 silver, and 3 bronze, bringing their total to 15. As predicted, Canada's men's hockey team delivered a gold medal performance, reinforcing their status as a global hockey leader. The Canadians' aggressive style of play and deep bench strength proved too much for their rivals. However, Canada's performance isn't just about hockey; they're showing strong performances in several other disciplines, including figure skating and speed skating.

The United States is currently in third place with 6 gold, 4 silver, and 6 bronze (16 total). While the US has secured several key victories, they've also faced stiffer competition than anticipated in some events, highlighting the growing depth of talent in winter sports worldwide. Germany and Sweden round out the top five, with 5 and 4 gold medals respectively, maintaining their traditional positions among the elite.

Beyond the Usual Suspects: A Rising Tide of Athletic Talent

One of the most captivating narratives of the Milan-Cortina games is the emergence of athletes from nations not traditionally associated with winter sports success. Several competitors from countries like Italy (the host nation, naturally), Jamaica, and even Kenya, have delivered stunning performances, challenging the established order. This wider participation underscores the increasing global reach of winter sports and the effectiveness of international development programs.

A particularly inspiring story is the performance of the Jamaican bobsled team, who, while not currently contending for medals, have consistently improved their times and captured the hearts of fans. Similarly, several athletes representing African nations are competing in skiing and snowboarding for the first time, demonstrating the growing accessibility of these sports.

Addressing Challenges: Altitude Sickness and Record Crowds

The games haven't been without their challenges. Concerns surrounding altitude sickness amongst snowboarders competing on the higher-altitude courses were initially prevalent. Medical teams have been diligently monitoring athletes and implementing preventative measures, including acclimatization protocols and increased hydration. While several athletes experienced mild symptoms, no serious cases have been reported, and organizers are confident that they are managing the situation effectively.

However, the biggest surprise is the unprecedented attendance numbers. Early data indicates that the Milan-Cortina Olympics are experiencing the highest turnout in Winter Olympics history. This surge in spectators is a testament to the enduring appeal of winter sports and the successful marketing efforts of the organizing committee. However, it also presents logistical challenges, with transportation and accommodation becoming increasingly strained. Organizers are working to optimize public transportation and ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees.

What to Expect in the Coming Days

With several key events still to come, including the men's and women's downhill skiing and the final rounds of the curling tournaments, the medal table is likely to undergo significant changes. The battle for supremacy between Norway and Canada is expected to intensify, and several other nations are poised to make a strong push for the top spots. The final week promises to be packed with drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments. Keep an eye on the emerging talents and the continued evolution of winter sports as the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics draw to a close.