Johannes Høsflot Klæbo Makes Winter Olympic History with Sixth Gold

LAGO DI TESERO, ITALY — Norwegian cross-country skier Johannes Høsflot Klæbo cemented his place in Olympic history on Saturday, February 21, 2026, claiming an unprecedented sixth gold medal at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games in the men’s 50-kilometer marathon. This victory establishes him as the winningest athlete in the history of the Winter Games.

Breaking Records

Klæbo’s six gold medals surpass the previous record of five golds won by American speedskater Eric Heiden at the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics. With 11 career gold medals, Klæbo now trails only American swimmer Michael Phelps, who has 23 Olympic gold medals overall.

The Race to Victory

In Saturday’s 50km mass start event, Klæbo utilized his signature finishing sprint to overtake teammate Martin Løwstrøm Nyenget on a steep final climb, securing a comfortable lead and waving to the crowd on the homestretch. Nyenget finished second, and Emil Iversen took the bronze, completing a sweep of the podium for Norway.

A Legacy Built on Technique and Dedication

Klæbo’s success is rooted in a long-term strategy developed with his grandfather, Kåre. Recognizing that the young Klæbo was initially smaller than his competitors, they focused on perfecting his technique. This emphasis on technique, combined with rigorous training and mental discipline, has been instrumental in his rise to the top.

The “Klæbo Run” and Mental Fortitude

Klæbo is known for his innovative approach to racing, including a signature move dubbed the “Klæbo Run,” where he abandons traditional technique and runs up hills. His dedication extends beyond physical training, encompassing strict dietary and sleep habits, and a willingness to make sacrifices in his personal life to maintain peak performance.

Looking Ahead

Despite his remarkable achievements, Klæbo remains focused on the future. He and his grandfather are already planning for the 2030 Olympics, and he hasn’t ruled out competing in the 2034 Games, which will be held in Utah, where he often trains.