Winter Olympics were again unrelatable and ‘useless’ and yet utterly astounding to watch

February 23, 2026

TL;DR

Winter Olympic sports are considered 'useless' with no practical application and offer little fame or fortune to athletes.
Athletes participate primarily to test themselves, driven by an innate desire rather than material rewards.
The bravery, determination, and stories of overcoming adversity by athletes like Lindsey Vonn, Matt Weston, Johannes Høsflot Klæbo, Mikaela Shiffrin, and Federica Brignone are inspiring.
The Milan-Cortina Games faced issues with budget overruns and unfinished infrastructure, with construction work extending long after the event.
The author suggests a lesson in accepting imperfection, noting that the Games can function well even if not entirely completed.
The purity and dedication of the athletes are the true essence of the Games, overshadowing the 'set dressing' of infrastructure and organization.

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