Beijing Winter Olympics: Medal Table Tightens
Locales: UNITED STATES, AUSTRIA, SWITZERLAND

BEIJING, February 11th, 2026 - The Winter Olympics in Beijing are now well into their second week, and the competition is heating up. While the initial days showcased established powerhouses, a wave of young talent is beginning to make its mark, challenging expectations and reshaping the medal landscape. Express Sport continues to provide comprehensive live updates, analysis, and athlete profiles as the Games unfold.
The Medal Table Takes Shape
As of today, February 11th, 2026, Germany continues to lead the medal tally with an impressive 8 gold, 9 silver, and 7 bronze medals. However, the gap is closing. Norway remains a formidable threat, hot on Germany's heels with 7 gold, 6 silver, and 5 bronze. Japan's consistent performance has solidified their position in third place, demonstrating strength across multiple disciplines. The United States, while consistently competitive, currently sits in fifth, behind Austria, with a focus on maximizing performance in the remaining events. The tight competition amongst the top nations demonstrates a clear shift in winter sports dominance; previously unchallenged nations are now facing intense pressure from emerging teams.
Lindsey Vonn Predicts US Success
Three-time Olympic gold medalist Lindsey Vonn, a legendary figure in alpine skiing, recently shared her insights on the US team's prospects. Vonn expressed strong confidence in the younger generation of American athletes, particularly highlighting the strength of the women's team. "I think they are going to do really well," Vonn stated. "There's a lot of young talent and a lot of strong athletes, particularly on the women's side. The U.S. is going to be competitive, definitely." Vonn's assessment appears accurate, with promising performances in snowboarding and freestyle skiing, although securing consistent podium finishes remains a challenge. The US team is expected to make a strong push in the upcoming bobsleigh and skeleton competitions.
Curling Delivers Thrilling Moments
The curling arena has been a hotbed of excitement. Yesterday's match between Canada and Italy was a nail-biter, going down to the wire with the score tied heading into the final end. Canada ultimately secured a narrow victory, proving the precision and strategic depth of the sport. Other notable curling performances include Sweden's consistent dominance in the men's competition and Switzerland's unexpected surge in the women's draw. The sport continues to attract a wider audience, captivated by its unique blend of athleticism, strategy, and team work.
Ski Jumping - Johansson Defends His Crown?
The ski jumping event is consistently a crowd favorite, and this year is no exception. All eyes are on Norway's Robert Johansson, the defending champion, as he attempts to retain his title. However, a new generation of jumpers is emerging, challenging Johansson's dominance. Slovenia's Timi Zajc and Austria's Stefan Kraft are considered strong contenders, pushing Johansson to his limits. The competition promises spectacular displays of athleticism and courage, as athletes soar through the air, vying for the coveted gold medal. Increased safety measures and refined aerodynamic techniques have resulted in progressively longer jumps, adding to the spectacle.
The Rise of New Disciplines & Innovation
Beyond the traditional events, the Beijing Winter Olympics is also showcasing the growing popularity of newer disciplines like mixed team aerials and mixed team snowboard cross. These events appeal to a broader demographic and attract significant television viewership. The Games are also serving as a platform for technological innovation. Advanced sensor technology embedded in athletes' equipment is providing real-time data on performance, while virtual reality experiences are allowing fans worldwide to immerse themselves in the action. Sustainability is also a key focus, with the Beijing Organizing Committee committed to minimizing the environmental impact of the Games through the use of renewable energy and responsible waste management.
Looking Ahead
The remaining days of the Beijing Winter Olympics promise further excitement, with key events in ice hockey, figure skating, and alpine skiing still to come. The battle for the medal table is expected to intensify, and the emergence of new champions is almost guaranteed. Express Sport will continue to provide comprehensive coverage, bringing you all the latest updates, analysis, and athlete interviews as the Games draw to a close on February 21st.
Read the Full Daily Express Article at:
[ https://www.express.co.uk/sport/othersport/2169338/winter-olympics-live-lindsey-vonn ]