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Exploring Norway's Winning Formula for Winter Olympic Success

KVIA•Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 9:55 AM•CNN Newsource

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Norway has once again proven its dominance in the Winter Olympics, finishing the 2026 Games in Milan Cortina with a record-breaking 18 gold medals and a total of 41 medals overall. This small nation, with a population similar to South Carolina, has consistently outperformed larger countries like the US and China by fostering a youth sports culture that emphasizes enjoyment and participation over competition. Until age 12, Norwegian youth sports do not keep score, allowing young athletes to explore various sports without pressure. This approach not only retains talent but also cultivates well-rounded athletes capable of excelling at elite levels. The success of Norway's sports system serves as a potential model for other countries, including the US, which often emphasizes early specialization and high costs in youth sports.

Key Details: • Norway won 18 gold medals and 41 total medals at the 2026 Winter Olympics. • Youth sports in Norway do not keep score until age 12, promoting broader participation. • Norwegian athletes are encouraged to try multiple sports to discover their true potential. • The US youth sports system is criticized for its high costs and early specialization.

winter-olympics youth-sports norway sports-development us-sports

People & Organizations

South CarolinaMilan CortinaNorwayTore ØvebrøJosh MancusoGeir JordetNorwegian School of Sports Sciences

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