The 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics kicked off Wednesday, as eight countries took the ice for mixed doubles curling. Team USA's debut, however, would have to wait until Thursday, when it took on Norway, which won the silver medal in mixed doubles at the 2022 Olympics in Beijing.

Ski mountaineering will make its Olympic debut this year, the first winter sport to do so since 2002. Skeleton, luge, ski jumping and moguls are also getting new events.

The Canadian women have won gold at five of the last six Winter Olympics, but USA has all the momentum heading into the 2026 Milano Cortina Games.

The 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics kicked off Wednesday, as eight countries took the ice for mixed doubles curling. Team USA's debut, however, would have to wait until Thursday, when it took on Norway, which won the silver medal in mixed doubles at the 2022 Olympics in Beijing.

The Winter Olympics are a spectacular event. There are lugers at high speed, skiers and snowboarders jumping and performing tricks, and figure skaters putting on amazing performances, just to name a few of the sports and athletes.