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NBC Balances Live Olympics Coverage with Primetime Spoilers

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 5:32 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, ITALY, CHINA

Milan/Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy - February 17, 2026 - As the Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo continue to captivate audiences worldwide, NBC is navigating the delicate balance of delivering live competition alongside a spoiler-conscious primetime schedule for viewers in the Eastern Time Zone. Tonight, Tuesday, February 17th, 2026, the network's coverage focuses on key events including Figure Skating, Bobsled, and Curling, with a replay of Snowboard Cross rounding out the evening.

Tonight's primetime block, airing from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM ET on NBC, with streaming options available on Peacock, NBCSports.com, and the NBC Sports app, will feature a mix of live events and delayed replays. The core strategy, however, remains consistent with NBC's longstanding Olympic approach: to provide a compelling narrative arc for viewers while minimizing the risk of revealing results to those who prefer to experience the events with a sense of surprise.

This strategy isn't simply about convenience; it's a complex logistical and viewing experience consideration. The global nature of the Olympics, coupled with the time zone differences, means results are often widely known online and through social media hours before NBC's primetime broadcast begins. To combat this, NBC strategically delays certain broadcasts, focusing on editing packages that build suspense and tell the stories behind the athletes and their performances. The network aims to create a compelling television product that feels like a live event even when it's not entirely so.

Tonight's Schedule Breakdown:

• 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM ET: Figure Skating - Women's Short Program (Live): The women's short program is a pivotal moment in the figure skating competition. It's where athletes establish their initial position and showcase their technical skill and artistry. Expect intense competition and dramatic performances as skaters vie for a favorable position heading into the free skate. The live broadcast allows East Coast viewers to witness the elegance and athleticism firsthand, while the network will likely weave in athlete profiles and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

• 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM ET: Bobsled - Men's Two-Man Race (Live): Bobsledding, a thrilling display of speed and precision, is set to take center stage. The Men's Two-Man race promises adrenaline-pumping action as teams navigate the icy curves at breakneck speeds. Viewers can expect a focus on the teamwork and coordination required to pilot the bobsled effectively. The live coverage will capture the raw energy and tension of the race, providing a visceral experience for those watching at home.

• 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM ET: Curling - Round Robin (Live): Curling, often described as "chess on ice," offers a unique blend of strategy, skill, and precision. The Round Robin stage of the competition sees teams battling for position in the playoff round. While perhaps less visually explosive than some other sports, curling has a dedicated and growing fanbase who appreciate the intricate tactics and strategic maneuvering. Live coverage will allow viewers to understand the nuances of the sport and appreciate the skill involved.

• 10:00 PM - 11:00 PM ET: Snowboarding - Mixed Team Snowboard Cross (Replay): The mixed team snowboard cross is a relatively new addition to the Olympic program, offering a fast-paced and exciting competition. While a replay, it provides an opportunity for viewers who may have missed the initial event to catch the action. It also allows NBC to highlight some of the most dramatic moments and compelling storylines from the competition.

The Broader Olympic Landscape:

Beyond tonight's primetime schedule, the Milan/Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are showcasing a diverse range of winter sports, attracting athletes and fans from around the globe. The Games are not only a celebration of athletic achievement but also a platform for international cooperation and cultural exchange. The impact of these Games extends beyond the sporting arena, boosting tourism, economic activity, and national pride in the host regions. For those wanting a comprehensive look at the full Olympic schedule, NBC Olympics' website ([ https://www.nbcolympics.com/schedule/ ]) is the definitive source.

As the Olympics progress, NBC will continue to refine its primetime strategy, balancing live coverage with the need to provide a spoiler-free viewing experience. The network's commitment to storytelling and compelling presentation will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the narrative of the Milan/Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics for viewers across the United States.