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2026 Winter Olympics Underway in Milan/Cortina

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. 6-winter-olympics-underway-in-milan-cortina.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 4:21 GMT by USA Today
      Locales: Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige, Valle d'Aosta, ITALY

MILAN/CORTINA, Italy - February 17th, 2026 - The 2026 Winter Olympics are in full swing here in the stunning Italian Alps, and today, Tuesday, February 17th, promises a thrilling day of competition across a diverse range of winter sports. From the speed and precision of Alpine Skiing to the endurance challenges of Cross-Country Skiing, and the team spirit of events like Ski Jumping, athletes are pushing the boundaries of their abilities. This live blog from USA TODAY Sports will bring you all the latest updates, results, and highlights as they happen.

Today's schedule is packed, offering something for every winter sports enthusiast. The morning kicks off with the adrenaline-fueled Men's Downhill in Alpine Skiing. This event is always a crowd-pleaser, showcasing the courage and skill of the world's fastest skiers as they navigate a challenging course at breakneck speeds. Early reports suggest favorable conditions on the course, potentially setting the stage for record-breaking runs.

Immediately following the downhill, the Women's 10km Classic in Cross-Country Skiing will test the endurance and technique of the athletes. The classic style, with its traditional diagonal stride, requires a unique combination of strength, stamina, and finesse. Expect a tactical race where pacing and strategic positioning will be crucial.

The Biathlon Mixed Relay is another highlight of the morning session. This event combines the precision of rifle shooting with the physical demands of cross-country skiing. Teams will need to balance speed and accuracy to avoid costly penalties. Several nations are expected to contend for gold, making this a particularly exciting race.

Throughout the day, Curling's Round Robin action continues, offering fans a chance to witness the strategic complexity and skillful execution of this unique sport. Ice Hockey preliminary round games are also underway, with several intriguing matchups scheduled to take place.

Afternoon and Evening Program: Speed, Style, and Skill

The afternoon session brings a different set of challenges. The Luge and Skeleton competitions offer a glimpse into the world of ice sliding, where athletes hurtle down a narrow track at incredible speeds. The Men's singles Luge promises intense competition, while the Women's Skeleton race is sure to be a thrilling spectacle. Safety remains paramount in these sports, and athletes undergo rigorous training to minimize the risks.

The Ski Jumping Team event is another key attraction. This event not only tests the individual skill of the jumpers but also the ability of a team to work together and strategize. The atmosphere at the ski jumping venue is always electric, with fans cheering on their national teams.

For those who prefer a more stylish display of athleticism, the Snowboarding Halfpipe competition will showcase the creativity and skill of the world's best snowboarders. Expect to see a dazzling array of tricks and maneuvers as athletes compete for the coveted gold medal. The Halfpipe event has become a major draw for a younger audience, bringing a vibrant energy to the Olympics.

Finally, the day concludes with the Speed Skating 500m event. This is a pure test of speed and power, with athletes skating a single lap around the oval track. Milliseconds can separate the winners from the also-rans, making this a nail-biting finish.

Athletes to Watch

While official profiles are still being rolled out, several athletes have already emerged as strong contenders. In Alpine Skiing, all eyes are on [Athlete Name - to be updated], a consistent performer on the World Cup circuit. In Cross-Country Skiing, [Athlete Name - to be updated] is expected to challenge for a medal. The Biathlon Mixed Relay will see intense competition between Norway, Sweden, and France, all of whom boast strong teams. Keep an eye on [Athlete Name - to be updated] in Luge, and [Athlete Name - to be updated] in Snowboarding - both are considered rising stars in their respective sports.

How to Follow the Action

For viewers in the United States, coverage of the 2026 Winter Olympics is available on NBC, Peacock, and the NBC Sports app. Check your local listings for specific schedules and streaming options. Live results and updates are also available on the official Olympics website and through USA TODAY Sports' live blog.

Stay tuned throughout the day for continuous updates, analysis, and behind-the-scenes stories from the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina!