Home / Sports / Milan Cortina Games End, France Takes Torch
Milan Cortina Games End, France Takes Torch
23 Feb
Summary
- 2026 Winter Games concluded with a closing ceremony in Verona Arena.
- Norway topped the medal count, while host Italy achieved its best-ever tally.
- France officially received the Olympic flag to host the 2030 Games.
The curtain has fallen on the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games, marked by an elaborate closing ceremony within the ancient Verona Arena. International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry lauded the organizers for setting a high standard for future events.
France officially received the Olympic flag, signifying its role as the host nation for the upcoming 2030 Winter Games. These future games are set to span across diverse locations, including the Alps, Nice, and potentially utilizing venues in Italy or the Netherlands for speed skating events.
Norway concluded the 2026 Games at the top of the medal table, amassing a remarkable 41 medals. Host Italy achieved a historic best-ever performance, securing 30 medals. The competition featured 116 medal events across 16 disciplines, including the debut of ski mountaineering.
The closing ceremony itself was a grand spectacle, celebrating Italian culture through music and dance, from opera to modern pop. Athletes from around the globe participated in the festivities following the conclusion of the final events, including the cross-country skiing mass starts.
