Italian Skier Brignone Wins Gold After Leg Fracture, Norway's Klaebo Sets Winter Record

Federica Brignone and Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo made history in contrasting ways at the Winter Olympics.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Italian skier Federica Brignone won two gold medals at the Winter Olympics, just months after suffering a leg fracture, while Norway's Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo set a new winter record.

Why it matters

Brignone's comeback from a serious injury to win gold is an inspiring story of perseverance, while Klaebo's record-breaking performance cements his status as one of the greatest winter athletes of his generation.

The details

Brignone won the women's super-G and combined events, just months after breaking her leg in a training accident. Meanwhile, Norway's Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo won the men's cross-country skiing events, setting a new record for the most winter Olympic gold medals by a single athlete.

  • Brignone suffered a leg fracture in training prior to the Winter Olympics.
  • Brignone won gold in the women's super-G and combined events on February 13, 2026.
  • Klaebo set the record for most winter Olympic gold medals by a single athlete on February 14, 2026.

The players

Federica Brignone

An Italian alpine skier who won two gold medals at the 2026 Winter Olympics, just months after suffering a leg fracture.

Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo

A Norwegian cross-country skier who set a new record for the most winter Olympic gold medals by a single athlete at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

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What they’re saying

“Brignone's comeback from injury to win gold is an incredible achievement that will inspire athletes around the world.”

— James Ellingworth, AP Sports Writer (nhregister.com)

“Klaebo's dominance in cross-country skiing cements his status as one of the greatest winter athletes of his generation.”

— James Ellingworth, AP Sports Writer (nhregister.com)

The takeaway

The 2026 Winter Olympics featured inspiring stories of resilience and record-breaking performances, showcasing the incredible athleticism and determination of the world's top winter sports competitors.