Day 16 of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Sunday, 22 February 2026, marked the final day of the Games, ending four weeks of thrilling winter sports competitions. The Closing Ceremony was held at the historic Verona Arena, a Roman amphitheatre, celebrating Italy’s culture and the spirit of the Olympics.
The ceremony, titled “Beauty in Action,” began at 20:30 CET and lasted approximately two and a half hours. It highlighted Italian art, music, and traditions while providing a glimpse of the next Winter Games in the French Alps in 2030. The event featured stunning performances, parades of athletes, and the handover to the host country for the next Games.
Flag-bearers from the United States, figure skater Evan Bates and hockey player Hilary Knight, led their team during the parade of nations. Broadcasters covering the event included Peacock and NBC in the USA, BBC Two in the UK, and 9Network in Australia, allowing millions around the world to watch the finale live.
Norway finished as the top nation in the medal table for the 2026 Winter Olympics, winning a record 18 golds and 40 medals in total. The United States followed in second place, achieving a personal best of 11 golds and 32 total medals. These results highlight Norway’s dominance in winter sports and the continued strength of the U.S. team.
The 2026 Winter Olympics ended with celebrations, cultural performances, and a festive farewell to athletes, coaches, and fans. The Games not only showcased world-class athletic talent but also highlighted Italy’s rich heritage and the Olympic spirit of unity and excellence. The focus now shifts to the 2030 Winter Games, promising another exciting chapter in Olympic history.