Cortina d’Ampezzo and Milan, Italy – The 2026 Winter Olympics continue to deliver thrilling competition and heartbreaking finishes for athletes across a range of disciplines. Thursday’s events saw successes and disappointments, with Italy experiencing a mixed bag of results. While hopes remain high for some, others saw their medal dreams dashed as the Games progress. From speed skating to alpine skiing and beyond, the action unfolded across several venues, showcasing the dedication and skill of winter athletes from around the globe.
The day’s schedule was packed with events, including curling, ski alpinism, bob, Nordic combined, freestyle skiing, speed skating and ice hockey. Several athletes delivered standout performances, while others faced the sting of defeat. The Italian team, competing on home soil, felt both the elation of strong showings and the frustration of falling short of expectations. The atmosphere in Cortina d’Ampezzo and Milan remains electric as fans rally behind their national teams and celebrate the spirit of the Olympic Games.
Curling Disappointment for Italy’s Men’s Team
Italy’s men’s curling team saw their hopes of a semifinal berth extinguished on Thursday, falling to a strong Swiss side 9-5. The match, a crucial one in the round robin stage, proved too challenging for the Italian team led by Joel Retornaz and Amos Mosaner. According to reports, Switzerland entered the game with a perfect 9-0 record, demonstrating their dominance throughout the tournament. RaiNews detailed the disappointment for the Italian squad, who were unable to overcome the Swiss precision and strategy.
The loss means that Joel Retornaz, Amos Mosaner, Sebastiano Arman, and Mattia Giovanella will not advance to the semifinals. Analysts noted that the Italian team struggled to maintain consistency throughout the tournament, despite a promising start. “They played below their standards in too many occasions after a very promising start to the tournament,” OA Sport reported, highlighting the missed opportunity for the home team to secure a top-four finish. The team will now appear ahead to the World Championships, hoping to regroup and refine their performance.
Strong Performances in Ski Alpinism and Freestyle Skiing
Despite the curling setback, Italy enjoyed success in other events. Giulia Murada delivered a strong performance in the women’s sprint ski alpinism, finishing fifth. The event saw intense competition, with Murada demonstrating her speed and endurance. Similarly, Stefano Di Stefano achieved a fifth-place finish in the men’s 1500m speed skating event. These results, while not medal-winning, represent significant achievements for the Italian athletes competing at the highest level.
The freestyle skiing events also provided excitement. The men’s halfpipe qualifiers took place, with athletes vying for a spot in the final. The aerials event saw both qualifying rounds and the first final, showcasing the incredible athleticism and skill of the competitors. The women’s halfpipe qualifiers are scheduled to continue on Friday, promising more thrilling action.
Nordic Combined Team Sprint and Other Events
In the Nordic combined team sprint event, the competition began with the ski jumping portion. The teams then transitioned to the cross-country skiing segment, testing their all-around abilities. The results of the ski jumping portion will determine the starting order for the cross-country race, adding an element of strategy to the event. The Italian team’s performance in this event will be closely watched by fans eager to see them contend for a medal.
Other events on Thursday’s schedule included the women’s four-person bob, with the second timed run taking place. The women’s two-person bob also held a timed run, allowing teams to fine-tune their preparations for the competition. The women’s ice hockey tournament continued with the bronze medal game, while the men’s curling tournament progressed to the semifinal stage. The women’s ice hockey final is scheduled for Friday, promising a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next at the 2026 Winter Olympics?
As the 2026 Winter Olympics continue, the schedule remains packed with exciting events. Friday will feature the continuation of the freestyle skiing halfpipe competitions, with the women’s qualifiers taking center stage. The figure skating free program is also scheduled, promising a captivating display of artistry and athleticism. The curling tournaments will continue, with the men’s semifinals determining which teams will compete for a spot in the gold medal game. The hockey tournaments will also reach their climax, with the women’s final set to be a highlight of the day.
The Italian team will be looking to build on their successes and overcome their disappointments as they compete in the remaining events. With the home crowd behind them, they will undoubtedly be motivated to deliver their best performances. The 2026 Winter Olympics continue to captivate audiences around the world, showcasing the dedication, skill, and sportsmanship of athletes from across the globe. The next major event to watch will be the women’s ice hockey final on Friday evening, where a fresh champion will be crowned.
The competition remains fierce, and every event promises a thrilling spectacle. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates and to support their favorite athletes as they strive for Olympic glory. The spirit of the Games is alive and well in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, creating an unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike.
What are your thoughts on Italy’s performance so far? Share your comments below and let us know which events you’re most excited to watch!
