Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo Makes Olympic History with Sixth Gold Medal

TESERO, Italy (AP) — Norway’s Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo cemented his place in Olympic history on Saturday, February 21, 2026, by winning his sixth gold medal at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. His victory in the men’s 50-kilometer mass start cross-country skiing race established a new record for the most gold medals won by a single athlete at a Winter Games, surpassing the nearly 50-year-old record held by American speed skater Eric Heiden [source].

Breaking Heiden’s Record

Klaebo’s achievement surpasses the five gold medals won by Eric Heiden at the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics [source]. While Heiden’s wins were all in individual events, two of Klaebo’s gold medals at the 2026 Games came in relay events, meaning Heiden’s record for individual wins remains intact [source].

A Norwegian Sweep

The Norwegian team dominated the 50-kilometer race, completing a sweep of the podium. Martin Loewstroem Nyenget secured the silver medal, and Emil Iversen took bronze [source]. The three Norwegians established an early lead and maintained a significant gap throughout the race.

Klaebo’s Olympic Legacy

With this latest victory, Klaebo extends his career record to 11 gold medals across three Winter Olympic Games [source]. He surpassed the previous record of eight gold medals. Only U.S. Swimmer Michael Phelps, with 23 Olympic golds, has won more gold medals overall [source].

Norway’s Dominance

Klaebo’s win contributed to Norway’s record-breaking performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The nation secured its 18th gold medal, increasing its overall medal count to 40 [source]. Norway set a new record on Friday for the most gold medals won by a nation at a single Winter Olympics when Johannes Dale-Skjevdal won the 15-kilometer mass start biathlon race [source].