Across mountains, cities and stadiums – from San Siro to the slopes of Livigno, from the Olympic Village to the heart of Milan – Samsung’s mobile innovation helped connect athletes, fans and communities in every moment.

Guided by the message “Open always wins,” Samsung brought new perspectives to the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, opening up podium celebrations, broadcast storytelling, athlete connection and everyday interactions in ways that felt more personal, more immersive and more human than ever before.

Key Milano Cortina 2026 numbers:

• Victory Selfie: The Victory Selfie was incorporated into the official medal ceremony across all events at the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026
• Team Samsung Galaxy: 73 athletes across 18 countries shared their Openness stories throughout Milano Cortina 2026
• Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition distributed: To nearly 3,800 Olympic and Paralympic athletes
• Opening Ceremony broadcast integration: 26 Galaxy S25 Ultra devices embedded with Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS)
• Interpreter-enabled Games-time support: 850+ Galaxy devices embedded with Interpreter provided across the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games footprint
• Galaxy Charging Station: 64 stations helped spectators stay powered throughout the Games

The Samsung Newsroom revisits the defining milestones that shaped Milano Cortina 2026.

Winning Together: Victory Selfie Becomes Iconic Podium Culture

On the Olympic podium, the instinct to share a once-in-a-lifetime achievement comes naturally. Victory Selfie captures that instinct —as a real, athlete-shaped moment of connection, self-expression and shared celebration.

▲ Gold medalists of Team United States, silver medalists of Team Japan and bronze medalists of Team Italy pose for a Victory Selfie after the figure skating team event. (Photo by Andreas Rentz / Getty Images)

At Milano Cortina 2026, Victory Selfie continued to grow into an iconic podium culture, reflecting how athletes choose to remember and share the emotion of the moment — whether standing alone, side by side, or as a team. Powered by the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition^[1], medalists captured their victories during the medal ceremony, turning medal moments into personal, shareable memories in their own voice.

Across the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Victory Selfie became an official part of the medal ceremony across all events — reinforcing the podium as more than a ceremonial stage, but a cultural moment of unity, gratitude and celebration.

In a broader sense, Victory Selfie also reflected the spirit of Openness — showing that the Olympic and Paralympic Games are not only about competition, but about sportsmanship, connection and the moments that bring people together beyond results.

That same spirit continued beyond the podium, as Team Samsung Galaxy shared “Open always wins” stories throughout the season, with 68 members across 17 countries bringing fans closer to the athletes and moments behind the Games.

Nearly 3,800 Athletes Connected With the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition

For Milano Cortina 2026, Samsung provided the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition to nearly 3,800 Olympians and Paralympians. Designed as an intelligent, pocket-sized companion, the Olympic Edition supported athletes from Olympic Village life to medal ceremonies.

▲ U.S. figure skaters, including Team Samsung Galaxy star and Milano Cortina 2026 gold medallist Alysa Liu, show off their Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition at the Samsung Open Station in the Olympic Village. (Photo courtesy of Samsung Electronics)

With Galaxy AI at the core, the Olympic Edition helped athletes communicate, create and share more seamlessly throughout their Games-time journey. Key capabilities included:

• Interpreter^[2], powered by Galaxy AI — enabling real-time translation processed directly on device, helping conversations stay natural
• Dual Recording^[3], allowing athletes to capture both sides of a moment at once — their reactions and the world around them — for richer, more immersive storytelling
• Photo Assist^[4], supporting fast, high-quality edits that helped athletes be creative and share memorable images with ease
• Now Brief^[5], delivering personalised daily updates such as reminders and calendar events to support a smoother routine amid an intense schedule
• Games-time athlete services and connectivity support, including access to Athlete365, the Galaxy Athlete Card helping athletes stay informed and connected throughout the Olympic and Paralympic Games

The device’s distinctive design — combining Samsung’s signature blue with a custom gold frame — symbolised both unity and excellence, reflecting the spirit of Milano Cortina 2026.

Dynamic Perspectives: Galaxy Devices Integrated Into the Opening Ceremony Broadcast

Milano Cortina 2026 also expanded how fans experienced Games-time storytelling. In collaboration with Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), Samsung helped introduce new, immersive perspectives into the Opening Ceremony broadcast environment.

For the first time at an Olympic Winter Games Opening Ceremony, 26 Galaxy S25 Ultra devices were embedded across the live broadcast setting. Positioned across athlete entrance tunnels, stadium stands and dynamic camera rig placements, Galaxy devices captured immersive views wirelessly and in real time — complementing traditional broadcast infrastructure and helping viewers worldwide feel closer to the emotion of the moment.

▲ The Galaxy S25 Ultra helped film the live broadcast of the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 at San Siro Olympic Stadium (Photo courtesy of Samsung Electronics)

From the Parade of Nations to behind-the-scenes celebrations, athletes also used their Galaxy devices to capture and share personal Opening Ceremony memories — extending the experience beyond the stadium into the hands of the people who lived it.

Beyond the Spotlight: Connecting Everyday Moments Across the Olympic and Paralympic Games

Across Olympic Villages and venues, Samsung equipped select Games-time support teams with Galaxy devices featuring Interpreter, powered by Galaxy AI^[6] — enabling real-time translation processed directly on device, supporting day-to-day interactions without relying on network connectivity across geographically distributed mountain locations.

▲ Team Samsung Galaxy figure skater Daniel Grassl of Italy uses Galaxy AI-powered Interpreter at the Milano Cortina 2025 Olympic Village (Photo courtesy of Samsung Electronics).

In total, more than 850 Galaxy devices embedded with Interpreter were provided to a select group of volunteers to support Games-time assistance across the event footprint, helping conversations stay smooth, welcoming and human-centered.

Inside competition venues, Samsung technology also supported operations and fair play. Samsung monitors supported officiating in Short-Track Speed Skating disciplines, contributing to operational clarity and consistency during competition.

Around host cities and venues, 64 Galaxy Charging Stations helped spectators stay powered during long event days, ensuring meaningful moments could be captured and shared in real time, without interruption.

Samsung House: A Central Hub for Openness

At the heart of Milan, inside the historic Palazzo Serbelloni, Samsung House became a central gathering space for athletes, media and partners throughout both the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

▲ A view of Samsung House, inside the historic Palazzo Serbelloni, in Milan, Italy (Photo courtesy of Samsung Electronics)

It hosted National Olympic Committee events, live competition viewings, athlete visits, media engagements and stakeholder meetings – creating space for reflection and shared celebration beyond competition.

The venue also showcased Samsung’s Olympic legacy through the Olympic Edition Gallery, featuring Olympic Editions from across the years and bridging nearly four decades of innovation with the present moment of Milano Cortina 2026.

▲ Norwegian speed skater and 5000m gold medallist Sander Eitrem visits Samsung House and takes a Victory profile photo with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. (Photo courtesy of Samsung Electronics)

Meanwhile, the Victory Profile portrait series was captured on Galaxy S25 Ultra — featuring athletes throughout Milano Cortina 2026 — and visitors were invited to step into the experience themselves, using the same device to capture their own moment.

Opening Up the Future: From Milano Cortina 2026 to LA28

From Olympic Editions distributed to thousands of athletes, to broadcast integration, AI-powered communication tools and Games-time operational support, Samsung’s role at Milano Cortina 2026 reflected the evolving way the world experiences the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

As Milano Cortina 2026 came to a close, attention began to shift toward what comes next. Building on the spirit of “Open always wins,” Samsung will continue to open up the Olympic and Paralympic experience with new perspectives, new technologies and new generations, ensuring that connection remains at the heart of the Olympic and Paralympic Games through LA28.

[1]Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition is not for sale.

[2]Interpreter requires Samsung Account login. Certain languages may require language pack download. Service availability may vary by language. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Availability and supported features may vary by country, region or carrier. Availability of supported languages may vary. Supported languages include Korean, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Polish, Hindi, Thai, Vietnamese, Russian, Bahasa Indonesia, Arabic, Dutch, Swedish, Turkish, Romanian, Filipino, and Gujarati.

[3]Dual Recording zoom-in feature supports up to 10x.

[4]Generative Edit feature for Photo Assist requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Editing with Generative Edit may result in a resized photo up to 12MP. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.

[5]Now Brief feature requires Samsung Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language, device model or apps. Some features may require a network connection.

[6]Samsung account login and network connection required. Galaxy AI features are provided for free. Future releases may include additional advanced features that are offered as part of a paid subscription plan. Different terms may apply for AI features provided by third parties

For the first time at the Paralympic Games, the Victory Selfie expanded beyond individual and pair events to all events – including team competitions. The Victory Selfie was incorporated into the official medal ceremony across all events as well at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. Every medal-winning athlete had the opportunity to share their individual or team triumph from their own perspective. All Victory Selfie images were shot with the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition^[1].

Victory Selfie represents how the Paralympic Games continue to evolve – honoring tradition while embracing new ways to enhance athlete and fan experiences during Games-time.

By placing the phone in athletes’ hands, Samsung reinforces a simple belief: athletes should be able to tell their own stories.

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, ITALY – MARCH 09: Bronze medalist Andrew Kurka of Team United States holds a phone as he prepares to take a victory selfie alongside Gold medalist Jeroen Kampschreur of Team Netherlands and Silver medalist Jesper Pedersen of Team Norway during the medal ceremony for the Men’s Para Alpine Skiing Super-G Sitting on day three of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games at Tofane Alpine Skiing Centre on March 09, 2026 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. (Photo by Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images for IPC)

▲ (Above) CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, ITALY – MARCH 09: Gold medalist Johannes Aigner of Team Austria and his guide Nico Haberl, Silver medalist Giacomo Bertagnolli of Team Italy and his guide Andrea Ravelli and Bronze medalist Kalle Ericsson of Team Canada and his guide Sierra Smith pose for a victory selfie with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition during the medal ceremony for the Men’s Para Alpine Skiing Super-G Vision Impaired on day three of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games at Tofane Alpine Skiing Centre on March 09, 2026 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. (Photo by Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images)

VAL DI FIEMME, ITALY – MARCH 07: Gold medalist Oleksandra Kononova of Team Ukraine, Silver medalist Natalie Wilkie of Team Canada and Bronze medalist Liudmyla Liashenko of Team Ukraine celebrate by taking a victory selfie on the podium during the medal ceremony for the Para Biathlon Women’s Sprint Standing on day one of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games at Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Val di Fiemme, Italy. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images for IPC)

[1]Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition is not for sale.

LIVIGNO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Gold medalist Ailing Eileen Gu of Team People’s Republic of China, Silver medalist Fanghui Li of Team People’s Republic of China and Bronze medalist Zoe Atkin of Team Great Britain take a victory selfie during the medal ceremony for the Women’s Freeski Halfpipe Final on day sixteen of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Livigno Air Park on February 22, 2026 in Livigno, Italy. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

London, UK – 22nd February 2026 – Fresh from delivering a standout performance at Milano Cortina 2026, world champion freestyle skier Zoe Atkin stood at the top of the podium and did what a new generation of athletes now instinctively do – she captured the moment.

Zoe’s victory selfie, captured on the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition^[1], wasn’t just a celebration. It was the culmination of early alarms, relentless training cycles, the setbacks and the incremental breakthroughs that built up to this defining run.

As a Team Samsung Galaxy athlete, Atkin represents a new era of Olympians who don’t just perform on the world stage, but bring fans into their life in real time.

As with every elite performance, the medal-winning moment was shaped long before she dropped in. As Zoe recently said in an interview:

“Your brain is totally empty; you can just be in your body and feel the sensations of what you’re doing. For me, that’s when it’s really fun because I feel like I’m flying above the crowds on the side of the halfpipe. I’m way above them and I can hear them screaming – I’m never that present, or in the moment, anywhere else.”

That ability to be fully present is built on disciplined preparation. As she explained in the same interview: “I’m very regimented about getting enough rest. I aim for between nine and 10 hours if I’m training the next day and calculate what time I need to wind down, just to make sure I’m asleep on time.”

To get her head in the zone before competition, Zoe also meditates – a practice that helps lower her baseline stress levels, something she can see reflected in her health and fitness data. “It stops me spiralling and helps me stay grounded,” she says. By tracking her recovery, rest and stress metrics, she ensures that when it’s time to drop in, both mind and body are aligned.

Using her Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition, Zoe could instantly connect with family, teammates and fans throughout her Olympic Games journey, sharing not just the medal, but the joy, relief and pride that followed. Before competitions, she has spoken about how connection grounds her: “Even if it’s just five minutes…seeing their faces resets me.”

From sharing her training runs, to taking her Victory Selfie at Milano Cortina 2026, Zoe brought fans closer to the Games than ever before.

Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience Vice President of Product and Marketing, Samsung UK & Ireland, said:

“The beauty of the Olympic and Paralympic Games lies not only in the medal ceremony, but in the journey that leads there. Zoe’s performance at Milano Cortina 2026 is a powerful reminder that progress is built in the unseen moments – the resilience, the setbacks and the relentless preparation that shape an athlete long before they step into the spotlight.

“At Samsung, we believe that when athletes stay open – to growth, to possibility, to new ways of connecting – they create the space to push boundaries. Zoe choosing to share that moment in real time reflects how today’s athletes are bringing fans closer to the full experience, not just the final result.”

[1]Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition is not for sale.

Team USA silver medalist and Team Samsung Galaxy athlete Alex Hall captures the moment with his Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition at the Hwaiting Night event.

The guest list featured more than 130 attendees, including a world-renowned freestyle skier Alex Hall, Italy’s snowboarding sensation Ian Matteoli, a Swiss snowboarder and content creator Nicolas Huber and an Italian lifestyle influencer Ludovica Frasca.

Inspired by the Korean expression “Hwaiting” — a phrase used to cheer someone on and wish them strength — the event created a space where sport, culture and Samsung Galaxy technology came together in support of the Olympic movement.

French freestyle skier Tess Ledeux shares her inspiring journey with fans and fellow Team Samsung Galaxy athletes at Samsung House during the Hwaiting Night event.

At the event, attendees participated in a range of interactive programs, including guided tours around Samsung House, listening to the heartfelt stories of fellow athletes sharing their road to the Olympics. The program also featured TeamGalaxy content captured throughout the athletes’ Olympic Games experience, before wrapping up with attendees watching live games on the big screen to cheer for their home-country teams.

Team Samsung Galaxy athletes connect at Samsung House during the Hwaiting Night event.

Through the Hwaiting Night event, Samsung brought together athletes, influencers and creators at the heart of Milano Cortina 2026. The evening was more than a celebration. It embodied Samsung’s belief that openness creates connection, fostering shared experiences that connect people across cultures and languages — demonstrating that “Open always wins.”

Team USA figure skater and Team Samsung Galaxy athlete Ilia Malinin poses for a Victory Profile during the Hwaiting Night event.

Team Samsung Galaxy athlete Anna Gasser enjoys a night at Samsung House for the Hwaiting Night event.

Team Italy and Team Samsung Galaxy athlete Miro Tabanelli shows off his limited-edition Samsung Milano Cortina 2026 pins during the Hwaiting Night event.

Today, Olympic pins are far more than souvenirs. Worn on lanyards and jackets, displayed in collections around the world and traded in Olympic Villages and fan zones, they serve as tangible symbols of connection long after the Games conclude. Each pin carries a story — of where it came from, who exchanged it and the moment it represents. 

© 2024 / International Olympic Committee (IOC) / MAKINO, Rakuto

Why Olympic Pins Matter

Unlike medals, which recognise athletic achievement, Olympic pins are designed to be shared. Their value lies not in competition, but in connection. 

Pin trading reflects the core values of the Olympic movement by inviting participation from athletes, fans, volunteers and visitors alike, fostering cultural exchange through designs inspired by host cities, sports and national identities, and encouraging togetherness through face-to-face interaction in an increasingly digital world. 

Through every exchange, pins become reminders that the Olympic Games are as much about meeting one another as they are about sport. 

Samsung and a Modern Take on a Timeless Ritual

The spirit of pin sharing reflects Samsung’s role in connecting people through the Olympic movement. At Milano Cortina 2026, Samsung continues its long-standing tradition of Olympic pin creation with a new collection developed in collaboration with acclaimed illustrator Olimpia Zagnoli. 

Inspired by the energy of the Winter Olympics and the cultural character of Milan and Cortina, the designs bring bold colour, movement and warmth to a winter setting — inviting people to connect through art and shared experience. Created not just to be worn but to be exchanged, each pin acts as a conversation starter, opening the door to new encounters, memories and friendships throughout the Games. 

Samsung celebrates the Olympic spirit with a designer Pin Collection by Olimpia Zagnoli

A Small Symbol with a Big Meaning

More than a century after the first Olympic badges were created, pin trading remains one of the most human traditions of the Olympic Games. In a world shaped by technology and global change, the simple act of exchanging a pin continues to express something timeless: openness, generosity and the joy of connection. 

The tradition lives on with Milano Cortina 2026 — one pin, one exchange and one shared moment at a time. 

Gifted to almost 3,800 Olympians and Paralympians, the Olympic Edition is helping them to stay connected with home, capture unforgettable moments, and share their journey with fans in real time — all while fitting seamlessly into the fast-paced rhythm of Olympic Games life. 

Staying close to home, even miles away

For many athletes, the Olympic Village is a temporary home filled with emotion, anticipation and quiet moments between competitions.  

Italian short-track speed skater Arianna Sighel captured that feeling perfectly, sharing a mirror selfie from her room with the Olympic Edition – on the front screen is a beautiful picture of her family. 

Italian short-track speed skater @ariannasighel

With its compact, foldable design and high-quality selfie camera, the Olympic Edition makes it easy for athletes to check in with loved ones — whether through a quick photo, a video call, or a message before heading out the door.  

Life in the Village, one swipe at a time

Belgian speed skating star Bart Swings offered fans a behind-the-scenes look at his first days in Milan, swiping through moments that define Olympic Games life: selfies in his room with his skates, iconic shots of the Olympic rings in the heart of the Village, and the excitement of unboxing his Olympic Edition straight from the Samsung booth. 

Belgian speed skating star @bart_swings  

From there, the Olympic Edition has followed Bart everywhere — part of daily routines at training in the rink, mounted for cycling sessions using Dual Recording, and filming workouts in the gym. For athletes balancing training, recovery and content creation, having a powerful communications device in a pocket-sized form factor makes all the difference. 

Iconic backdrops, unforgettable selfies

The stunning scenery surrounding Milano Cortina 2026 venues has inspired athletes to stop and capture the moment. Alpine skier Elena Curtoni snapped a bright selfie in the mountains in front of the Olympic rings, ticking off a must-have Games memory with her Olympic Edition. 

On the ice, Dutch Olympic short-track champion Suzanne Schulting shared training-day selfies rinkside without missing a beat between laps. 

Dutch short-track champion @suzanneschulting

Sharing the magic — together

Some moments are simply too big not to share. Polish athlete Michał Woźniak captured the pure energy of the Opening Ceremony in a video alongside his teammates, while Swiss snowboarder David Hablützel filmed his very first trip to on-site training — a milestone moment powered by the Olympic Edition. 

Freestyle snowboarder Marcus Kleveland summed up the excitement during his unboxing: “Sleek, compact, and built to move — just like life on snow.”  

Out on the slopes, Txema Mazet-Brown celebrated being part of Team Samsung Galaxy, capturing snowy moments with the Olympic Edition. 

Enhancing the Olympic Games experience

From morning training sessions to calls home, the Olympic Edition has been warmly received by athletes across disciplines. Its compact design slips easily into pockets, its Flex Mode unlocks new creative angles, and its powerful camera helps athletes tell their Olympic Games stories — exactly as they live them. 

At the Olympic Village in Milan, the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition isn’t just a smartphone. It’s a connection to home, a creative tool, and a memory-maker — helping athletes focus on what matters most while capturing every unforgettable step of their Olympic Games journey. 

Galaxy S25 Ultra devices were embedded within the Opening Ceremony to capture dynamic perspectives.

The Opening Ceremony offered an early glimpse of that innovation, with Galaxy S25 Ultra devices integrated into the live broadcast, delivering dynamic perspectives alongside traditional broadcast cameras. On the podium, medalists captured their victories through the Victory Selfie shot on the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Editioni – an authentic moment that has become an iconic part of the medal-winning experience. 

But connection extends far beyond the spotlight. From athletes mingling in the Olympic Village to volunteers guiding visitors through unfamiliar cities, Samsung’s mobile technology is supporting the everyday interactions that define Milano Cortina 2026. 

Turning Language Barriers into Moments of Connection 

To support seamless communication across venues – including remote mountain locations – Samsung equipped volunteers with Galaxy devices featuring Galaxy AIii-powered, on-device Interpreteriii.   

For Emmanuel Mantilla Jr., a volunteer from the Philippines supporting National Olympic Committees in the Olympic Village, language differences once meant hesitation.  

Mantilla believes the Olympic Games are “like another universal language,” bringing people from different cultures together in shared moments  

“English is widely spoken, but not everyone feels confident using it,” Mantilla said. “Before, I would hesitate. I would look for someone else who spoke their language and wait for that person to assist.”  

Now Interpreter has changed his approach. “Instead of waiting silently, I approach them directly and ask how I can help. The confidence is there now. “   

▲ Emmanuel Mantilla Jr. uses Interpreter to guide visitors from all around the world.

Mantilla recalls one memorable moment during his volunteer work. At a tram stop, a spectator asked for directions to the ice hockey arena – a venue outside Mantilla’s assignment.  

“It wasn’t even my venue,” Mantilla recalled. “The person had difficulty speaking English. So, I used the Interpreter to explain which tram to take and how to transfer to the shuttle going to the arena. Before, I might have tried to find someone else to help. Now, I can assist immediately.” 

Athletes Connecting Beyond Nationality 

Inside the Olympic Village, athletes from around the world are experiencing similar benefits.  

▲ Xaverri Williams uses Interpreter to communicate with fellow athletes in the Olympic Village.

Xaverri Williams, representing Trinidad and Tobago in bobsleigh, says the Interpreter feature makes it easier to communicate with athletes outside his delegation. 

“The translation feature is especially helpful in understanding people who don’t speak English fluently,” he said. “Having something that helps bridge that gap makes communication much easier and smoother.” 

▲ Tomas Guarino uses Interpreter to understand different languages spoken in the Olympic Village.

Spanish figure skater Tomas Guarino Sabate added that even small misunderstandings can interrupt connection. 

“Most people speak English,” he said. “But there are definitely moments when someone isn’t as comfortable, or when you don’t know the right word yourself. Having a tool that allows live translation can be really useful in those situations.” 

▲ Daniel Grassl believes technology enhances athlete communication and fan engagement.

For Team Samsung Galaxy athlete Daniel Grassl of Italy, mobile technology enhances both athlete-to-athlete interaction and fan engagement. “It allows you to express how you feel and share your day,” he said.  

Connecting Beyond the Village 

Samsung’s activation across Milano Cortina 2026 continues to connect fans and athletes alike.  

▲ Galaxy Charging Stations help visitors stay connected throughout Olympic Games.

Around the cities, Galaxy Charging Stations allow spectators to recharge their devices and stay connected to the action, ensuring they can share moments in real-time with family and friends.  

▲Victory Truck provides immersive Olympic Games Experience to visitors.

Meanwhile, the Samsung Victory Truck is traveling across Milan, Bormio and Livigno, bringing immersive Olympic Games mobile technology experiences directly to fans. Visitors can take photos with AR mascots Tina and Milo and download images via QR code, returning home with a digital keepsake from the Olympic Winter Games.  

Connecting Every Moment 

As Milano Cortina 2026 continues, Samsung’s innovation is helping ensure that language, geography and distance do not stand in the way of shared experience – connecting athletes and fans in every moment and ensuring the Olympic Winter Games spirit travels further. 

LIVIGNO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 9: Gold medalist Mathilde Gremaud of Team Switzerland, Silver medalist Ailing Eileen Gu of Team People’s Republic of China and Bronze medalist Megan Oldham of Team Canada selfie on the podium after winning the Women’s Slopestyle Final on day three of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Livigno Snow Park on February 9, 2026 in Livigno, Italy. (Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

London, UK – 13^th February 2026 – From Torvill and Dean’s unforgettable Boléro to Eddie the Eagle’s fearless ski jump, the Olympic Winter Games have delivered some of Britain’s most iconic sporting achievements.  Alongside medal-winning performances, they have also showcased the determination, belief and commitment that led them to success on the world’s biggest stage.

As anticipation builds for Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, new research from Samsung reveals that while gold-medal moments remain central to what fans celebrate, it’s the memorable journeys, breakthroughs and incremental wins behind them that continue to resonate with British fans today.

To celebrate Samsung’s partnership for Milano Cortina 2026, the brand commissioned research revealing that Torvill & Dean’s Boléro tops the list of the greatest Winter Olympic moments of all time for Brits, with 38% ranking it as the most iconic. Fans say these top moments stood out not just for the result, but also because their stories were moving (40%) and because they showed resilience (38%). Across the rankings, medal-winning performances that left the strongest impression were those rooted in emotion and perseverance, from underdog stories to comebacks and personal triumphs that went beyond medals.

This appreciation for the journey leading to milestone achievements extends far beyond elite sport. Samsung research reveals more than a third of Brits use their smartphone to capture moments of personal progress in their own lives (38%), from fitness milestones (40%) to trying something new (40%) to small day to day accomplishments (38%).

PHOTO CREDIT: MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Gold medalist Jutta Leerdam of Team Netherlands, Silver medalist Femke Kok of Team Netherlands, and Bronze medalist Miho Takagi of Team Japan celebrate by taking a victory selfie during the medal ceremony for the Speed Skating Women’s 1000m on day three of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Speed Skating Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Watching Winter Olympic athletes also appears to have a wider ripple effect, with a third of Brits saying the Games inspire them to challenge themselves (33%). Meanwhile, 81% agree it’s important to recognise small wins in everyday life with 61% saying that photos and videos of personal progress help them realise how far they’ve come.

Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience Vice President of Product and Marketing, Samsung UK & Ireland, said: 

“There’s a reason we’re drawn to the underdog stories and at the Winter Games they remind us that greatness can often be forged in the moments no one sees. Behind every iconic performance lie thousands of unglamorous hours: the falls, the 5am training sessions, the days you wanted to quit.

“Traditionally, the world has only seen the finished product. Today, that is changing. Athletes are opening the doors to their entire experience, sharing the setbacks, the relentless preparation, and the small breakthroughs that represent the true heart of the sport. Our partnership with Milano Cortina 2026 is built on this belief in authenticity. We want to ensure that the dedication behind the athlete is just as visible as the performance itself, celebrating the journey of every individual, no matter where it leads.”

Athlete’s journey resonates with viewers with three in ten having felt emotional watching the Winter Olympics, due to athletes finally achieving their dream (28%), an underdog story (27%) or watching someone overcome setbacks (23%). These moments of perseverance and progress are what transform sporting performances into lasting sources of inspiration.

Joining Team Samsung Galaxy’s roster for Milano Cortina 2026, Team GB Snowboarder Txema Mazet-Brown brings this mindset to life by sharing the small wins that shaped his Olympic Games journey.

“A lot of people only see what happens on competition day, but for me it’s the progress that happens every day that really matters” said Txema Mazet-Brown, Team Samsung Galaxy athlete. “It’s landing something you’ve been working on, learning from a fall, or just turning up and putting the work in when things don’t go perfectly. I’ve always felt like if you stay open to learning and keep pushing, things keep moving forward. Those small wins are what build your confidence over time and give you the belief to take the next step.”

The top twenty greatest Winter Olympic Games moments of all time, according to Brits, were:

1. Torvill & Dean’s Boléro (Sarajevo 1984)
2. Eddie the Eagle’s ski jump (Calgary 1988)
3. The Jamaican bobsleigh team debut (Calgary 1988)
4. Team GB women’s curling gold (Sochi 2014)
5. Amy Williams winning Team GB’s first solo gold in 30 years (Vancouver 2010)
6. Lizzy Yarnold back-to-back gold skeleton titles (Sochi 2014 and PyeongChang 2018)
7. “Miracle on Ice” ice hockey upset (USA beating Soviet Union in 1980 4-3)
8. Team GB men’s curling silver (Salt Lake City 2002)
9. Chloe Kim’s record-breaking halfpipe win (Beijing 2022)
10. Jenny Jones’ snowboard slopestyle bronze – GB’s first medal on snow (Sochi 2014)
11. Shaun White’s iconic snowboard halfpipe runs (e.g., Vancouver 2010)
12. Shaun White’s comeback gold in the halfpipe (PyeongChang 2018)
13. Ester Ledecká winning in both skiing and snowboarding (PyeongChang 2018)
14. Hermann “The Herminator” Maier’s crash and comeback triumphs (Nagano 1998)
15. Yuzuru Hanyu’s legendary figure skating performances (e.g., PyeongChang 2018)
16. Steven Bradbury’s last corner short track gold (Salt Lake City 2002)
17. Eric Heiden’s clean sweep of five speed skating golds (Lake Placid 1980)
18. Shelly Rudman’s breakthrough skeleton silver (Turin 2006)
19. Izzy Atkin’s freestyle skiing bronze (PyeongChang 2018)
20. Chemmy Alcott’s comeback performances (e.g., Sochi 2014)

The announcement was made in Milan, where the ambassador program announcement was held in conjunction with the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The three-day program ran from Feb. 8–10 and including an appointment ceremony, a solution exhibition and networking activities.

Solve for Tomorrow is Samsung’s global problem-solving platform that supports young people in developing innovative STEM-based solutions to address local and global challenges. This year’s global ambassadors were selected from winning teams of Solve for Tomorrow regional competitions around the world, with the final selection being made through a joint evaluation by Samsung and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) based on the innovation, scalability and social impact of each solution. The 10 selected teams are divided into two focus areas — Sport & Tech, and Accessibility & Environment — with five teams chosen in each category.

As part of the Ambassador program, each selected team will receive funding, along with up to two years of continued support from Samsung to help transform their prototypes into commercially viable products. Five teams in the Sport & Tech category will be jointly supported by Samsung and the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Raye Woon who represented Team CuraStep from the UK as a Samsung Solve For Tomorrow Ambassador in Sport & Tech said “It is incredibly rewarding to see our idea represented on a global stage and how far we’ve come in our mission to help diabetic patients worldwide. The Solve for Tomorrow community is extraordinary, and I’m delighted to be a part of it. As an ambassador, I look forward to championing the next generation of tech-for-good leaders!”

Sustainable Innovation in Sport & Tech

Held under the theme “Sport & Tech,” the aim of Samsung’s 2026 Ambassador program is to empower youth to drive sustainable innovation through the intersection of sports, technology and leadership. The official appointment ceremony took place at Samsung House in Milan and was attended by approximately 80 global stakeholders, including IOC President Kirsty Coventry; Jae Youl Kim, IOC Executive Board Member and President of Samsung Global Research; Olympism 365 Commission Chair Auvita Rapilla; Olympism 365 Commission Member Nawal El Moutawakel; and Won-Jin Lee, President and Head of Global Marketing at Samsung Electronics.

Commitment moment in the appointment ceremony underscored the shared commitment of Samsung and the IOC to jointly nurturing future talent and empowering young people to help shape a better world. This commitment was brought to life through a stage performance in which the composite logos of both organizations were brought together by unfolding and overlapping the Galaxy Z TriFold, completing the visual composition. The act of opening the TriFold symbolically represented the expansion of ideas and potential, as well as the shared belief of Samsung and the IOC in opening new possibilities as young people step forward to lead the future.

“The projects are truly inspiring: full of creativity, imagination, and passion to make a real difference. You’re using technology to shape a future that is more inclusive, more sustainable, healthier and more active,” said IOC President Coventry. “I am especially excited to see the first-ever Sport & Tech winners — combining sport, technology, and problem-solving in ways that can truly change lives.”

“Through Solve for Tomorrow and our collaboration with the IOC, we are creating environments where young people can discover their strengths, express their ideas, and contribute meaningfully to society,” said Global Marketing Head Lee. “We are not only supporting innovation but also nurturing future leaders who will carry forward the values of excellence, respect, friendship — and creativity.”

Solution Exhibition and Innovation Workshop

On Feb. 9, the ambassador teams showcased the solutions they developed at Smart City Lab in Milan and attended an innovation-themed workshop led by the IOC’s Olympism365 Innovation Hub that will equip the ambassadors with the skills to be an innovator of sustainable development in the world of sports. The exhibition was attended by representatives from the IOC, the Milano Cortina 2026 Organizing Committee and various Italian government agencies.

Former Solve for Tomorrow UK winner and member of the first cohort of Solve Ambassadors, Ramneek Kaur Ahluwalia, exhibited her project, MyVision – a tech-forward mobility aid designed to empower people with visual impairments. Ramneek, who has a visual impairment herself said “Partnering with Samsung to bring MyVision to life has been an amazing experience. I am thrilled to showcase my first physical prototype, demonstrating how this technology can truly transform the lives of the visually impaired community globally.”

On Feb. 10, the ambassadors took part in a series of on-site programs and official activities, as well as a visit to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Village. Through these experiences, Samsung is supporting the ambassadors in deepening their understanding of sports, technology and the meaning of the Olympic Games and the Olympic spirit.

Details regarding the 10 newly selected Solve for Tomorrow Ambassador teams and their projects are as follows:

The Five Sport & Tech Ambassador Teams

Australia | TeamUp: Ahan Kiani
An AI-based platform that connects individuals with local sports teams and communities to increase participation in recreational sports.

Indonesia | Run Sight: Anthony Edbert Feriyanto, Kaindra Rizq Sachio, Muhammed Fazil Tirtana and Ariq Maulana Malki Ibrahim
A wearable AI solution that helps people with visual impairments safely participate in running and other physical activities by detecting lanes and obstacles.

Türkiye | Poseidon: Umut Devrim Deveci and Efe Cem Öztürk
A swimming safety system for visually impaired users that provides vibration alerts through a wristband when approaching boundaries or obstacles.

Great Britain | Curastep: Raye Woon and Sarah Xie
Smart sneakers equipped with sensors to detect early signs of blister formation in people with diabetes and encourage safe physical activity.

United States | Storm Shield: Danielle Yang, Sara Carmona, Isha Harbaugh, Koel Harbaugh, Audrey Adams, Nikki Beshkar and Emily Wang
A protective sports headband designed to shield hearing aids from moisture, impact and environmental damage during physical activity.

The Five Accessibility and Environment Ambassador Teams

China | Furen Makers: Chenyue Wang, Ziyang Ma, Qiuyue Wang and Hewei Wen
A brainwave-controlled wheelchair designed to support people with ALS and physical disabilities in mobility, rehabilitation and sports participation.

France | Liova: Simon Cénet and Evan Dessables
A reusable battery production kit that transforms discarded smartphone batteries into portable power banks to reduce electronic waste.

India | Paraspeak: Pranet Khetan
A cloud-based AI solution that converts unclear speech into clear pronunciation in real time for people with speech impairments.

Türkiye | Oilsorb: İrem Erden, Ece Deniz Sayar, Ela Aksoy and Meryem Melis Çınar
A sustainable oil spill response solution using reusable wool-based oil absorption pads and drone technology to address marine pollution.

United States | Aqua-Gel: Arya Anilkumar, Anna Huang, Aishwarya Reddy, Subiksha Srinivasan Vidya and Elaine Zuo
An AI-powered smart bandage that monitors wound healing in real time and supports early infection detection through sensor data.

“In environments where critical decisions depend on what people see, visual accuracy and reliability matter,” said Hun Lee, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display (VD) Business at Samsung Electronics. “We’re proud to see our professional monitors used in these real-world settings, and we continue to focus on developing display technologies built on precision and trust.”

Short track speed skating is one of the fastest and most technically demanding sports in the Olympic Winter Games. Races are often decided by razor-thin margins — sometimes as little as 0.001 seconds — and outcomes can hinge on brief moments such as athlete contact or the precise positioning of a skate blade. In these situations, officials rely on high-speed camera systems and real-time video review to evaluate incidents and ensure fair competition.

To support this process across short track speed skating disciplines, professional Samsung monitors are used to enable real-time video review and competition monitoring. With the aid of these monitors, officials can clearly assess critical moments and confidently make rulings.

ViewFinity S8: Supporting Officiating with Clear, Reliable Visual Review

In officiating areas near the field of play at Milano Cortina 2026, Samsung’s 37-inch ViewFinity S8 monitors (S80UD model) have been deployed to support fair play through real-time video review and competition monitoring.

The ViewFinity S8 features a 4K UHD (3,840 × 2,160) resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio, offering a larger viewing area that allows officials to examine fine details without compromising clarity. Compared to standard 32-inch displays, the expanded screen enables clearer inspection of close calls at the same magnification, helping officials review footage with greater confidence. HDR10 support further enhances contrast and colour expression, ensuring faithful reproduction of video feeds during critical decision-making moments.

Odyssey Ark: Supporting Broadcast and Production Operations

Samsung monitors have also been installed in video rooms operated by Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), the official Olympic broadcaster for the International Olympic Committee (IOC). In these broadcast and production environments, Odyssey Ark supports teams monitoring multiple live feeds on a 55-inch display with a 1,000R curvature and 4K UHD (3,840 × 2,160) resolution.

Designed to enhance immersion while minimising visual distortion, Odyssey Ark helps broadcast teams maintain a clear view of fast-paced action as competition intensity unfolds. A 1ms GtG^[1] response time supports consistent image clarity during dynamic scenes, contributing to smooth monitoring across live production workflows.

Bringing Advanced Monitor Display Technology to Global Sporting Events

During the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, Samsung is carrying out its global Olympic and Paralympic partnership campaign, “Open Always Wins.” First introduced at the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024, the campaign reflects the value of openness — embracing differences, rejecting discrimination and creating greater possibilities through collaboration. At Milano Cortina 2026, the message is shared alongside Team Samsung Galaxy, Samsung’s official Olympic and Paralympic athlete ambassadors.

Building on its experience supporting live competition and broadcast environments at Milano Cortina 2026, Samsung will continue developing monitor solutions optimised for global sporting events and complex on-site operations, supporting fair competition and seamless production under the most demanding conditions.

[1]Gray-to-Gray, the length of time required for a pixel to transition from one shade of gray to another.