Follow NBC News live updates for the latest on the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, where hockey and snowboarding events will open ahead of the opening ceremony.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Two USA teams began their 2026 Winter Olympics journey Thursday with victories prior to the Opening Ceremony in Milan. The USA women’s hockey team dominated in its opener with a 5-1 win over Czechia in Milan.

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, have arrived as the top curling teams in the world are set to compete for their respective nations on the global stage.

Team USA Curling is heating up the in Milan for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Shop gear from Fanatics, DICK'S Sporting Good and more.

Live stream the action from the Cortina Olympic Stadium from anywhere in the world.

Southborough native Korey Dropkin, who trained at Broomstones Curling Club in Wayland, teamed with Cory Thiesse to earn a pair of wins at the Olympics Thursday.

What is a curling power play? What is the hammer? How many ends? Who's on the U.S. team, and will their stone-cold strategy end the medal drought?

Why does curling become so popular at the Olympics? And how does it even work? Time to actually learn about this popular Winter Olympics sport.

The opening ceremony for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy arrives Friday, but the sports will already be underway. Here's what to know.

Explore which states have the highest number of athletes competing for the U.S. Olympic team at the 2026 Winter Games, and search for your own hometown.