Ben Ogden Ends U.S. Men’s 50-Year Cross-Country Ski Medal Drought with Silver

Ben Ogden, a cross-country skier from Vermont, has made history by winning a silver medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Val di Fiemme, Italy. This achievement marks the first Olympic medal for a U.S. men’s skier in cross-country since 1976.

Historic Silver Medal for Ben Ogden

Ogden, 25, competed in the men’s sprint classic at the Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium on February 10, 2026. He finished his race in second place, coming in behind Norway’s Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo, an esteemed athlete in the sport. Oskar Vike of Norway secured the bronze medal.

Celebration and Reflection

“It was so, so awesome,” Ogden stated shortly after his victory. He celebrated his accomplishment by performing a backflip off the podium, a promise he made to his younger self. “I promised my 15-year-old self I would do that if I was ever on an Olympic podium,” he explained.

Race Overview

The race format required competitors to qualify, progressing through quarter-finals and semi-finals before reaching the final six skiers. Ogden qualified in second place and displayed impressive skill throughout the heats, ensuring his spot on the podium.

Looking to the Future

Ogden’s victory comes 50 years after the last medal was won by another U.S. skier, Bill Koch, who captured silver in Innsbruck, Austria. Ogden has often expressed admiration for Koch, noting the positive impact his achievement had on aspiring skiers in the U.S. “I know Bill; his medal gave a big boost to all the young skiers,” Ogden said.

U.S. Ski Team Celebrates

The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team hailed Ogden’s performance, highlighting his extraordinary accomplishment. “Ogden climbed to SECOND in the world to become the first American man to win an Olympic medal since Bill Koch in 1976!” they posted on social media.

Women’s Performance

In the women’s division, Jessie Diggins, regarded as a top U.S. cross-country skier, did not advance past the classic sprint races. Meanwhile, Julia Kern performed admirably, making it to the finals and finishing in sixth place.

This historic win by Ben Ogden not only signifies personal achievement but also revitalizes hopes for the future of U.S. cross-country skiing. His success is expected to inspire a new generation of skiers. The story of Ogden’s journey continues to unfold as more updates emerge from the ongoing Olympics.