Italy faced formidable problems heading into opening day of the 2026 Winter Olympics: funding shortfalls, warm weather, nagging delays in construction and unsaid worries of the International Olympic Committee. Surprisingly, even for the government of Italy, all went well. In fact, it was all a true success. "They have been fantastic," IOC President Kirsty Coventry said in her address to members at the Olympic body's session. "It could not happen without incredible teamwork... and we had it every step of the way." Italy itself earned its most medals ever, including 10 golds. Francesca Lollobrigida won the 3000 meters race in an Olympic record time on her 35th birthday, and added a second gold. She is the great-niece of the late legendary Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida. While there were no major terroristic threats, the Games operated under extreme security, cyber-sabotage by Russia, uncontrolled drones and, yes, a Penisgate Controversy : Repor...
The 2026 Winter Olympics are over, save for the Closing Ceremonies, as I crank out this posting. I asked Google AI, how did the USA do? Team USA had a historic performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, setting a new record for the most gold medals by the U.S. at a Winter Games . The team finished with 12 gold medals and 33 total medals, highlighting significant success in men's ice hockey, freestyle skiing, and women's alpine skiing. Key highlights from the 2026 Winter Olympics for Team USA included: Record-Breaking Performance: The team secured the record for most gold medals by Team USA at a Winter Olympics on Feb. 21, 2026, surpassing the previous high of 10. Men's Ice Hockey Gold: The U.S. men's team won their first gold since 1980 by defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime with a goal by Jack Hughes. Total Medal Count: Team USA finished behind only Norway in total medals (41) with a final tally of 33. Women's Success: U.S. wo...