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2026 Winter Olympics: Day 3 Thrills in Milan & Cortina

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 4:47 GMT by USA Today
      Locales: Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Valle d'Aosta, ITALY

MILAN & CORTINA, Italy - February 16, 2026 - The 2026 Winter Olympics are in full swing, and today, Monday, February 16th, promises a thrilling day of competition across a diverse range of winter sports. From the speed and daring of downhill skiing to the precision of ski jumping and the grit of cross-country racing, athletes are pushing their limits in the stunning Italian Alps. USA TODAY Sports is providing live updates, schedules, and results from Milan and Cortina as the Games unfold.

A Day of Firsts and Favorites

The third day of competition is already proving to be pivotal, with several events setting the stage for medal contention. The Mixed Team Ski Jumping event, kicking off at 9:00 AM ET, saw a surprisingly strong performance from the Canadian team, currently in second place behind a dominant Norwegian squad. This event, relatively new to the Olympic program, is quickly becoming a fan favorite, showcasing the combined talent and strategy of national teams. The inclusion of mixed-gender teams is a positive step towards gender equality in sports, offering increased opportunities for athletes of all backgrounds.

Downhill Drama and American Hopes The Men's Downhill alpine skiing event, slated for 10:30 AM ET, is always a highlight of the Winter Olympics. The course at Cortina d'Ampezzo is notoriously challenging, demanding both technical skill and unwavering courage from the skiers. American hopeful Bryce Thompson is considered a strong contender, having consistently placed well in World Cup downhill races this season. However, veteran Austrian racer Matthias Mayer, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in the event, remains the athlete to beat. Early reports indicate a particularly icy course, making precision and careful line selection critical.

Snowboard Cross: Speed and Strategy The Women's Snowboard Cross competition, concluding around 11:00 AM ET, is delivering the expected thrills. The head-to-head racing format, with riders battling for position down a winding, obstacle-filled course, is a spectacle of speed and athleticism. Italian rider Sofia Riva secured a surprising victory, besting heavily favored American Chloe Peterson in a photo finish. Peterson, despite the loss, remains optimistic about her chances in the parallel giant slalom later in the week.

Team USA Faces Swiss Challenge in Hockey

The highly anticipated Ice Hockey match between Team USA and Switzerland (1:30 PM ET) is a crucial game for both teams. The USA, coming off a dominant win against Germany, is looking to maintain their momentum. However, Switzerland, known for its disciplined play and skilled goaltending, is a formidable opponent. Experts predict a tight, physical game with a strong emphasis on defensive strategy. The winner will likely secure a favorable position in the playoff bracket.

Endurance Tests: Cross-Country and Biathlon

The afternoon will see athletes test their endurance in the Men's 15km Free Cross-Country Skiing event (2:00 PM ET) and the Women's 7.5km Biathlon Sprint (3:00 PM ET). Norwegian cross-country skier Johannes Thingnes Boe is the clear favorite in the cross-country event, having dominated the World Cup circuit this season. The Biathlon sprint will be a test of both speed and accuracy, as athletes navigate a challenging cross-country course while hitting targets with their rifles. The Swedish team is expected to be strong in the biathlon, boasting a roster of experienced and skilled shooters.

How to Follow the Action

For viewers at home, NBC and Peacock are providing comprehensive live coverage of the Olympic events. Streaming options are also available through the NBC Sports app, allowing fans to watch on their computers, tablets, and mobile devices. USA TODAY Sports will continue to provide up-to-the-minute updates, results, and analysis throughout the Games. Keep checking back for the latest developments from Milan and Cortina!

Looking Ahead

As the 2026 Winter Olympics progress, expect more dramatic moments, inspiring performances, and unforgettable stories. The blend of established stars and emerging talents ensures a captivating spectacle for sports fans around the globe. With a packed schedule and fierce competition, the next few days promise to deliver even more excitement and drama from the heart of the Italian Alps.