The 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy brought together athletes from around the world for an unforgettable display of talent, determination, and international unity. Hosted across multiple cities, including Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, this year’s Games showcased a wide range of winter sports, from figure skating to ice hockey.

Held from February 6 to February 22, the Olympics featured competitors from over 90 countries, all striving to represent their nations on one of the world’s biggest stages. Organized by the International Olympic Committee, the Games emphasized not only competition, but also global connection through sport.

One of the most talked-about moments of the Olympics came from American figure skater Alysa Liu, who captured worldwide attention with her incredible comeback. Liu won two gold medals, ending a 24-year Olympic gold drought for American women in figure skating. Her confidence, resilience, and performance quickly made her a fan favorite across the United States.

This year’s Olympics also introduced ski mountaineering as a new event, adding to the excitement and variety of the Games. In addition, the Olympics took a more environmentally conscious approach by hosting events across multiple locations and prioritizing the use of existing venues. These efforts helped reduce the environmental impact while still delivering a world-class experience.

For many students watching from home, the Olympics remained just as inspiring as ever.

“The Winter Olympics are exciting to watch and it’s inspiring to see athletes from so many countries compete at such a high level,” said student viewer Jayden Pham.

Beyond medals and records, the Milano-Cortina Games served as a reminder of how sports can bring people together. Athletes from different backgrounds, cultures, and countries competed side by side, united by their passion and dedication.

As the Games came to a close, they left behind more than just highlights — they reinforced the power of perseverance, global unity, and the pursuit of excellence.