Norway, a nation with a population of just over 5 million, has once again asserted its prowess at the Winter Olympics, securing the most medals at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Games. This remarkable achievement marks the fourth consecutive time the Scandinavian country has led the medal standings. In contrast, the United States, with a population exceeding 300 million, finished second. Looking ahead, France, which concluded the 2026 Games outside the top five, is set to receive the flag from Italy as the host nation for the 2030 Winter Olympics.
The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics officially concluded on February 22nd, following 16 intense days of competition that began on February 6th. The Games showcased eight distinct sports across 116 disciplines. Out of 92 participating nations, a total of 2,871 athletes competed for glory, though ultimately, only athletes from 29 countries managed to secure medals.
Norway led the medal count decisively, accumulating an impressive total of 41 medals. This haul included 18 gold, 12 silver, and 11 bronze medals. For a nation with approximately 5.7 million inhabitants, this marks the 11th time Norway has topped the medal table at the Winter Olympics, a testament to its consistent excellence in winter sports. Notably, this achievement extends their streak to four consecutive Winter Games where they have claimed the most medals.
Norway’s legacy of Olympic success dates back to the very first Winter Games in 1924, where they also led the medal standings. Subsequent top finishes include 1928, 1936, 1948, 1952, 1968, 2002, and the recent consecutive triumphs in 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026. Historically, the Soviet Union holds the record for leading the medal count seven times, placing them second overall in this particular metric, followed by Germany, which has achieved this feat three times.
The United States, with a population of 342 million, secured a respectable second place at the Milan-Cortina Games, earning a total of 33 medals. Their collection comprised 12 gold, 12 silver, and 9 bronze. Host nation Italy, along with Germany, France, Sweden, Switzerland, Austria, and Japan, rounded out the top ten nations in the medal standings.
As the curtain falls on the 25th edition of the Winter Olympics in Italy, attention now turns to France, which is slated to host the 26th Winter Games in 2030.
