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Olympics Special Edition
Italy’s Golden Moment: A Historic Run at the Olympics
Bob Sorrentino for Phil~italy
February 19, 2026
Welcome Back (bentornati) to Phil~italy Cultural Exchanges Newsletter. We publish bi-weekly exploring the food, culture, music, art, architecture, natural beauty and history of our beloved Italy.
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As the 2026 Winter Olympics unfold on home soil at Milano-Cortina, Italy is having the most successful Winter Games in its history. With competition still underway, the Italian team has already **surpassed its previous record medal haul of 20 set at Lillehammer in 1994, reaching 22 total medals — including 8 golds, 4 silvers and 10 bronzes — with plenty of events yet to be decided. This historic performance reflects a deep and balanced effort across disciplines from ski racing and biathlon to speed skating and snowboarding.
Francesca Lollabrigida
Italian athletes have delivered some standout moments that stand as defining highlights of the Games so far. Federica Brignone captured her second gold medal in giant slalom, adding to her super-G victory and extending her legacy as one of Italy’s most decorated Winter Olympians. In biathlon, Lisa Vittozzi claimed her first Olympic gold in the women’s 10 km pursuit with a flawless shooting performance. Speed skater Francesca Lollobrigida also contributed an important gold on the ice, showcasing Italy’s growing strength in long-track competition.
Federica Brignone
Italy’s success at Milano-Cortina is resonating with fans and experts alike, placing the host nation among the top contenders in the overall medal count. Although Norway currently leads in gold medals, the Azzurri’s record-breaking total has them firmly in the conversation as this remarkable home Olympics continues. Beyond the numbers, the emotional impact of these results — from home crowd roars to veteran athletes rising to the occasion — has made this edition an unforgettable chapter in Italian Olympic sport.
On Sale NOW! Two new Phil~italy group Trips
July 2026 and August 2026, each 12 day all inclusive priced itinerary.
Experience a journey of contrasts in Central-Southern Italy, where the vibrant pulse of ancient cities meets the quiet, sun-drenched rhythms of the rustic interior. This is a land where you can wake up to the lively chaos of a Neapolitan market and fall asleep in a rural setting in the foothills of the Apennine Mountains. Rest each night in a resort-style hotel rather than hotel hopping. Enjoy easy access to a large swimming pool to cool off from the summer heat, preparing you for the next day of enticing La Dolce Vita excursions, or simply relax and stay put.
Look for details on these Phil~Italy Summer 2026 trips on our website www.philitaly.co and in the next newsletter issue in a couple of weeks
Meet Mother Cabrini (portrayal) with Phil~italy Cultural Exchanges, LLC
Date: Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 1:30pm
Event Address: Convivium 33 Gallery (Art Gallery): Former St. Josephat Church, 1433 E 33rd St, Cleveland, OH 44114 This location is full of many forms of art created by Giancarlo Calicchia, born in Rome, Italy and in American for several decades.
Contact/Text at 917.523.9068 or [email protected]
Join Phil~italy for a live portrayal of Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini. Cleveland-based Women in History brings us the fascinating story behind Mother Cabrini's mission in Italy and the United States, as the first American citizen saint to be canonized on July 7, 1946. She became a U.S. citizen and founded 67 institutions for the poor. Her story is fascinating and inspirational. Order tickets here.
Light refreshments served.
$5 donation offering requested cash or zelle to [email protected]
“We highly recommend you dine in these very authentic Italian and Sicilian Restaurants”
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