Winter Olympics were again unrelatable and ‘useless’ and yet utterly astounding to watch
Guardian Sport
by Andy BullFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Winter Olympics, often overshadowed by their Summer counterparts, continue to captivate audiences with their unique blend of drama, unpredictability, and sheer athleticism. While Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic movement, initially dismissed winter sports as "completely useless" due to their lack of practical application, the 1924 Chamonix Games marked a turning point. By the end of those first Winter Olympics, de Coubertin acknowledged the purity and beauty of these sports, which he later described as "among the purest." This shift in perspective reflects how winter sports have evolved into a celebration of human achievement and storytelling, offering moments that are both absurd and unforgettable.
The 2022 Winter Olympics were no exception. They were defined by a mix of politics, controversy, and quirky incidents. From JD Vance being jeered to Ukrainian bobsledders being banned, the Games were anything but predictable. Athletes faced unexpected challenges, such as Lindsey Vonn crashing out early and Ilia Malinin making costly mistakes. Meanwhile, viral moments like slow-motion videos of a Canadian curler stroking a stone with his finger dominated social media, showcasing the lighter, more whimsical side of the Olympics.
Despite their lack of fame or fortune, winter sports have a way of uniting people through shared wonder and admiration for athleticism. The Norwegian ski-jump team even became part of the cultural conversation when questioned about doping—adding a layer of absurdity to an already unique event. These moments highlight how the Winter Olympics are more than just sport; they’re a reflection of human resilience, curiosity, and the ability to find inspiration in the most unexpected places.
Ultimately, the Games remind us that sport is not just about medals or victories but about the stories and experiences that shape them. The purity de Coubertin later recognized still resonates today—winter sports may seem "useless" in practical terms, but their ability to inspire awe and bring people together makes them anything but trivial. For anyone interested in the human spirit and the power of
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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/23/2026