Norway’s all-conquering Winter Olympians have a message for us all – and it’s not what you think | Cath Bishop

Guardian Sport

by Cath Bishop

February 26, 2026

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Norway’s remarkable dominance at the Winter Olympics has left the world puzzled. With just 5.6 million people, this small Nordic country consistently tops the medal table, winning an impressive 18 gold medals and 41 medals overall in Milano Cortina. But Norway’s success isn’t limited to winter sports—they also performed strongly in the Summer Olympics, securing four gold medals and eight total medals at Paris 2024 despite not aligning with traditional summer sports strengths. While medal counts are impressive, they mask a deeper story: Norway’s unique approach to sport, which prioritizes fun over suffering, has created one of the most sustainable and effective sports systems in the world. Norway’s achievements challenge conventional wisdom about what it takes to build Olympic success. Unlike many countries that focus on rigorous training and early specialization, Norway emphasizes a holistic approach where children are encouraged to enjoy physical activity from an early age. This philosophy fosters a love for sport that extends into adulthood, producing athletes who are not only talented but also mentally resilient. By making sports accessible and enjoyable, Norway has built a system that produces world-class athletes without burning out young talent. The broader implications of Norway’s success are significant for the global sports community. Their approach highlights the importance of nurturing a lifelong

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/26/2026