U.S. men's hockey team wins historic gold at Milan Cortina 2026

Norway and Italy set medal records at memorable Winter Games

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The XXV Olympic Winter Games in Milan Cortina closed with a spectacular ceremony, capping off two weeks of historic performances. The U.S. men's hockey team won its first Olympic gold since the 'Miracle on Ice' in 1980, defeating Canada in overtime. Norway set records for most medals and most golds in a Winter Games, while host nation Italy also had a record-breaking performance, winning 30 total medals.

Why it matters

The U.S. men's hockey gold medal was a landmark achievement, ending a 46-year drought since the team's iconic upset of the Soviet Union at the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics. Norway and Italy's medal hauls demonstrated the global growth and competitiveness of winter sports, with smaller nations challenging traditional powerhouses. The Winter Games also showcased Italy's ability to host a successful major international event.

The details

In the men's hockey final, the U.S. and Canada were tied 1-1 after regulation, leading to a 3-on-3 overtime period. Jack Hughes scored the game-winning goal for the Americans at 1:41 of overtime, giving the U.S. its third Olympic men's hockey gold medal. Norway set Winter Games records with 41 total medals, including 18 golds. Italy also had a historic performance, winning 30 medals, shattering its previous high of 20. The host nation's medal haul was led by strong showings in cross-country skiing and bobsled.

  • The men's hockey final took place on February 22, 2026.
  • The closing ceremony for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics was held on February 22, 2026.

The players

Jack Hughes

American ice hockey player who scored the game-winning goal in overtime to give the U.S. men's hockey team the Olympic gold medal.

Giovanni Malago

President of the Milan Cortina 2026 Organizing Committee, who oversaw the successful delivery of the Winter Games.

Kirsty Coventry

President of the International Olympic Committee, who praised the organizing committee and Italian people for hosting a memorable Winter Olympics.

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What they’re saying

“What we have witnessed over the past two weeks demonstrates just how much the Winter Games matter to the Olympic Movement.”

— Giovanni Malago, President, Milan Cortina 2026 Organizing Committee

“From alpine villages to elegant cities and snow-covered mountains: your warmth, your hospitality, your passion made every single one of us feel at home.”

— Kirsty Coventry, President, International Olympic Committee

What’s next

The Milan Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games are scheduled to take place from March 6-15, 2026, continuing the legacy of the successful Olympic Games.

The takeaway

The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will be remembered for the historic achievements of the U.S. men's hockey team, Norway's dominance, and Italy's record-breaking performance as the host nation. The Games showcased the global growth and competitiveness of winter sports, while also demonstrating Italy's ability to successfully deliver a major international sporting event.