Published on Feb. 16, 2026, at 7:04 p.m. ET
Bormio – According to Tore Oevreboe, Norway’s head of delegation, the nation’s remarkable record of consistent success at the Winter Olympics is rooted in a decades-old cultural approach that prioritizes children’s well-being, equal participation in sports, and collective knowledge-sharing over immediate competitive outcomes.
Norway currently leads the medal standings with 27 medals, including 12 gold, surpassing host nation Italy. This Scandinavian country has consistently topped the medal charts since the 2014 Sochi Games and performed strongly in previous Olympic competitions.
“While we recognize the need to excel in every discipline we enter, we strive to remain composed and modest, showing great respect for our rivals,” Oevreboe told Reuters, emphasizing that Norway never assumes its triumphs.
Oevreboe explained that Norway’s competitive edge originates far from advanced training facilities or specific medal objectives. “It’s difficult to pinpoint one secret. It’s fundamentally tied to how our society is structured,” he stated.
“We ensure equitable distribution of resources, making it possible for children to engage in sports and for parents to support them. People typically work eight hours, leaving them ample time to participate in sports with their children.”
Emphasis on Enjoyment, Not Premature Performance
Norway’s approach, Oevreboe clarified, aims to retain children in sports by fostering their enjoyment rather than subjecting them to early pressure to win. “We strive not to emphasize winning too soon,” he mentioned.
Youngsters are encouraged to explore various sports, cultivate diverse physical and social competencies, and avoid being ranked at an early age.
“Our goal should not be to produce losers, but rather to cultivate young, small winners. The true victory lies in participating in sports and experiencing joy.”
“In Norway, the essence of engaging in sports is to live a fulfilling life. This involves starting young to acquire motor skills, social skills, and learning to effectively use one’s body in physical activities.”
Oevreboe further elaborated that Norway’s achievements are bolstered by a cooperative sports framework, built on collaboration among coaches and federations, which has shaped the elite sports system since 1988.
“We pool our knowledge because we are not a large enough country to operate in isolation,” he explained. “Individuals with significant expertise often know each other, or come to know each other, precisely because the nation is so compact.”
Pre-owned Market Boosts Participation
Even for costly winter sports, Oevreboe noted that Norway makes efforts to ensure participation is accessible to all families. “We have a very active market for pre-owned equipment,” he said. “Many successful athletes started their younger years using secondhand gear.”
Looking ahead to the remaining events of the Games, Oevreboe confirmed that Norway has set a target of 35 medals.
“We aim to convey our confidence in our athletes, but without placing undue pressure on them.”
Oevreboe stated that this guiding principle extends even when elite talents opt to depart from the Norwegian system, as seen with skier Lucas Pinheiro Braathen who chose to compete for Brazil.
“If he finds greater happiness competing for Brazil, then he should choose Brazil,” he asserted. “We would never prevent anyone from doing so.”