This nation’s population is 60 times smaller than the USA. It topped the Olympic medal tally

Sydney Morning Herald

by Jake Niall

February 21, 2026

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This nation’s population is 60 times smaller than the USA. It topped the Olympic medal tally

Norway has stunned the world by topping the medal tally at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, despite having a population of just 5.65 million—about 60 times smaller than the USA. With an impressive 18 gold medals and 40 total medals as of Sunday morning (AEDT), Norway has outperformed even the heavily favored American delegation by a significant margin. This remarkable achievement is no fluke but rather the result of a unique sports philosophy that prioritizes joy, skill development, and holistic growth over early competition. Unlike many countries, Norway encourages children to explore multiple sports and emphasizes social and motor skills rather than immediate success. This approach has fostered unparalleled depth in disciplines like cross-country skiing, Nordic combined, and biathlon. Johannes Høsflot Klaebo, a standout athlete with 11 gold medals—more than any other Winter Olympian in history—embodies Norway’s sporting excellence. His dominance in cross-country skiing, where he secured his sixth gold medal at the event, highlights the nation’s strength in this traditional winter sport. Norway’s success extends beyond individual athletes; their teams consistently outperform larger nations like Sweden and Germany, showcasing a well-rounded athletic prowess. The reasons behind Norway’s achievements are multifaceted. The country’s natural environment, with its abundant snow and ice, provides an ideal setting for winter sports. Additionally, Norway invests heavily in developing young talent across various disciplines, creating a pipeline of skilled athletes capable of competing at the highest level. This focus on long-term development and joy in sport has set Norway apart as a global leader in winter athletics. For readers interested in international sports and Olympic success, Norway’s story offers valuable insights into how national philosophy can shape athletic achievement. It challenges conventional methods like early specialization and highlights the importance of fostering well-rounded athletes who thrive both individually and as part of a team. Norway’s continued dominance at the Winter Olympics not only inspires but also raises questions about what

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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/21/2026