Klaebo Makes History, Ties Winter Olympics Gold Record
TESERO, Italy – Johannes Høsflot Klæbo of Norway etched his name into Olympic history today, February 13, 2026, by winning his eighth gold medal at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. This victory ties him with three other Norwegian athletes – Marit Bjoergen and Bjoern Daehlie in cross-country skiing, and Ole Einar Bjoerndalen in biathlon – for the all-time Winter Games gold medal record. Klæbo secured the win in the men’s 10 kilometer interval-start race, adding to his already impressive medal haul at the 2026 Games. He now has three gold medals at this year’s Olympics and still has three races remaining.
Johannes Høsflot Klæbo Makes Olympic History: A Novel Era in Cross-Country Skiing
Johannes Høsflot Klæbo has cemented his place in Olympic history, securing his ninth gold medal at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games and surpassing all previous records for gold medals won by a Winter Olympian.
Dominance Displayed in Milano Cortina
Klæbo’s historic win came in the cross-country skiing relay on Sunday, February 15, 2026, further solidifying his status as a cross-country skiing superstar. He now stands alone as the most decorated Winter Olympian of all time.
Previously, Klæbo tied the record of eight gold medals on Friday, February 13, 2026, with a victory in the men’s 10 kilometer interval-start race. This achievement initially placed him alongside fellow Norwegian cross-country skiers Marit Bjoergen and Bjoern Daehlie, as well as biathlete Ole Einar Bjoerndalen, all of whom have since retired.
A Champion’s Journey to the Top
The 29-year-old’s journey to this milestone has been marked by exceptional talent and dedication. He demonstrated rare signs of fatigue after the 10km race, collapsing at the finish line, a testament to the immense effort he exerted.
Klæbo’s success isn’t limited to the 2026 Games; he previously showcased his prowess at the 2025 FIS Nordic Ski World Championships in Trondheim, Norway, winning all six gold medals offered. This feat made him the most decorated men’s skier at the world championship level, with a total of 15 gold medals, surpassing Petter Northug.
Did you know? Johannes Høsflot Klæbo strategically races the first half of courses at a controlled pace, conserving energy for a powerful finish, as demonstrated in the 10km interval-start race.
The Competition and Future Outlook
France’s Mathis Desloges secured a silver medal in the 10km race, marking his second silver at the Milan Cortina Games and a significant achievement for the underdog athlete. Norway’s Einar Hedegart finished third, losing momentum on the final hill.
Klæbo acknowledged the challenge, stating, “It’s a special day. This one means a lot for sure… I’m lost for words.” He emphasized the importance of tactics and preparation, highlighting his strategy of pacing himself and unleashing a burst of energy on the final stretch.
With three races still remaining, Klæbo has the opportunity to further extend his record and solidify his legacy. He comes to the Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium as No.2 in the medal standings, trailing only Bjoern Daehlie, who holds eight gold medals and 12 podium finishes.
FAQ
Q: How many Olympic gold medals does Johannes Høsflot Klæbo have?
A: He currently has nine Olympic gold medals.
Q: Who did Klæbo surpass to develop into the all-time leader in Olympic gold medals?
A: He surpassed Marit Bjoergen, Bjoern Daehlie and Ole Einar Bjoerndalen, all of whom had eight gold medals.
Q: Where did Klæbo win his historic ninth gold medal?
A: He won it in the cross-country skiing relay at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games.
Pro Tip: Successful cross-country skiers like Klæbo prioritize energy management, employing strategic pacing to maximize performance during crucial race segments.
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