Unlike in the Summer Olympics where Americans often dominate the podium, Team USA has lagged behind a bit in recent Winter Games. In 2022, Team USA finished fifth in the medal count with 25 total medals -- although their nine gold medals was good for third.

There will be 93 countries, plus numerous athletes from Russia and Belarus, competing at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.

The United States has the most athletes competing in the Winter Olympics, but is not favored to win the gold medal race.

By Trevor Stynes, Amy Tennery and Giulio Piovaccari MILAN, Feb 5 (Reuters) - The United States began their gold medal bid with a 5-1 win over the Czech Republic, Italy made a winning start to their home Games with a 4-1 victory over France,

After the Americans’ lackluster performance at the Calgary Winter Games in 1988, the New York Yankees owner went to work.