Norway (population: 5.7m) beats US (342m) to top Winter Olympics medal table

Guardian Sport

by Tom Lutz

February 22, 2026

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Norway has once again emerged as the top country at the Winter Olympics, securing an impressive 18 gold medals and a total of 41 medals. This achievement is particularly notable given Norway's relatively small population of 5.7 million compared to larger nations like the United States, which came in second with 12 golds and 33 total medals. Norway's success was driven by its athletes' exceptional performances across various disciplines, including cross-country skiing, where Johannes Høsflot Klæbo became a standout figure by winning six gold medals—more than all but seven countries combined. The country's dominance extends beyond just medal counts; Norway also set new records for participation and overall performance. This success reflects the nation's long-standing commitment to investing in sports infrastructure and fostering a culture of excellence in winter sports. Norway's athletes have consistently demonstrated world-class ability, making it a perennial contender at the Winter Olympics. This achievement matters because it highlights the importance of strategic investment in sports development and the potential for smaller nations to compete on a global stage. Norway's record-breaking performance not only inspires future generations of athletes but also underscores the idea that success is not solely dependent on population size or economic resources. As other countries look to replicate Norway's achievements, they may find inspiration in its approach to nurturing talent and prioritizing sports participation at all levels.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/22/2026