Winter Olympics 2026 LIVE: Milano Cortina Games come to an end with closing ceremony in Verona
Sydney Morning Herald
by Billie Eder, Vince Rugari, Jake Niall, Bronte GosslingFebruary 22, 2026
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The 2026 Winter Olympics, held across three clusters in Italy—Livigno, Milan, and Cortina—came to a close with a lively closing ceremony in Verona. Australia ended the Games on a high note, achieving its best-ever performance at the Winter Olympics. The event marked the conclusion of Milano Cortina's hosting duties, with France set to take over as the next host nation for the 2030 edition.
The final moments of the Games were filled with excitement and last-minute drama as athletes from the Livigno cluster raced against time due to heavy traffic to reach Verona for the closing ceremony. This included Cooper Woods and Danielle Scott, who were set to carry Australia's flag during the proceedings. The delay caused concerns about whether they would arrive on time, adding tension to an already historic occasion.
Lindsey Vonn, the American skier, became a standout figure of the Games. Despite facing challenges with an ACL injury and undergoing multiple surgeries post-collision, her determination and resilience captivated audiences worldwide. Her story served as a defining moment of the Olympics, showcasing the spirit of perseverance in the face of adversity.
For Australia, the closing ceremony was a celebration of success. The country's athletes achieved numerous records and medals, making this its most successful Winter Olympics to date. Cooper Woods and Danielle Scott were chosen to lead the delegation, reflecting their significant contributions to Australia's achievements. Their flag-carrying role added a personal touch to an already memorable event.
The handover from Italy to France for future hosting responsibilities also marked a symbolic end to the Games. This transition highlights the global nature of the Olympics, where each host country brings its unique culture and energy to the world stage. The 2030 edition in France will likely build on the legacy set by Milano Cortina, continuing
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/22/2026