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2026 Winter Olympics: Day 3 Action Underway

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, February 9th 2026 at 6:19 GMT by USA Today
      Locales: ITALY, SWITZERLAND

MILAN & CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy - February 9th, 2026 - The third day of competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics is underway, promising a thrilling mix of speed, skill, and strategic play across several disciplines. USA TODAY Sports continues its live coverage from the stunning venues of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, bringing you the latest updates, schedules, and results as athletes vie for Olympic glory.

Today's action focuses heavily on individual brilliance and early team positioning. The Men's Downhill in Cortina is expected to be a highlight, featuring a demanding course that tests the limits of courage and control. Athletes will push the boundaries of physics, navigating treacherous turns and steep slopes at breathtaking speeds. Pre-race favorites include Norway's Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, a consistent performer on the World Cup circuit, and the young Swiss phenom, Marco Odermatt, who has been dominating the giant slalom events leading up to the Games. However, the unpredictable nature of downhill skiing means that an underdog victory is always a possibility.

Meanwhile, in Livigno, the Women's Snowboardcross competition is set to deliver its usual dose of adrenaline-fueled action. This event combines speed, agility, and tactical awareness as riders battle for position on a challenging, undulating course. Riders will jostle for the lead, strategically positioning themselves for the best lines and attempting to overtake opponents in a thrilling head-to-head format. Expect fierce competition from American riders, including defending champion Lindsey Jacobellis (though her age is starting to show), and rising stars from Canada and Australia.

Beyond the speed events, the precision and strategy of curling take center stage in Milan. The Men's Round Robin continues, offering fans a chance to witness the intricacies of this fascinating sport. Teams from across the globe are battling for position, utilizing skillful shot-making and tactical maneuvers to gain an advantage. The United States team, led by veteran skip John Shuster, is aiming for a strong showing, but faces stiff competition from Canada, Sweden, and Great Britain. Every stone counts in these early matches, as teams strive to build momentum for the knockout stages.

The clash between the USA and Sweden in Men's Ice Hockey is a particularly anticipated match. Both teams boast talented rosters comprised of NHL stars and seasoned international players. This early-round encounter could set the tone for their respective campaigns. The Americans, eager to reclaim Olympic dominance after recent disappointments, will be looking to showcase their offensive firepower and tight defensive structure. Sweden, known for their skilled puck handling and strategic play, will present a formidable challenge. The game is expected to be fast-paced, physical, and filled with intense moments. A win for either team would be a significant boost to their medal hopes.

Detailed Schedule - February 9th (All times Eastern Time)

• 5:30 AM ET: Alpine Skiing - Men's Downhill (Cortina d'Ampezzo) - Watch for potential upsets and blistering speeds.
• 6:15 AM ET: Snowboarding - Women's Snowboardcross (Livigno) - Expect aggressive riding and thrilling finishes.
• 8:00 AM ET: Curling - Men's Round Robin (Milan) - Strategic play and precise shot-making will be key.
• 9:30 AM ET: Ice Hockey - USA vs. Sweden (Milan) - A crucial early test for both teams.

Looking Ahead

As the Olympics progress, the competition will undoubtedly intensify. Over the next two weeks, athletes will push their limits, records will fall, and unforgettable moments will be created. Keep following USA TODAY Sports for comprehensive coverage of all the action, including athlete profiles, event previews, and exclusive behind-the-scenes stories. The Milan-Cortina Games are already proving to be a spectacle of athletic prowess and international camaraderie.