ALMATY – The 2026 Winter Olympic Games officially open today, Feb. 6, in Milan-Cortina, Italy, with Kazakhstan ready to highlight its winter sports talents in front of a worldwide audience.

Kazakhstan will host the 2029 Asian Winter Games after Saudi Arabia's withdrawal. Almaty has been named as the new venue by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). The decision was announced at the Winter Olympic Games in Italy, where OCA President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani thanked Kazakhstan for its commitment to developing winter sports.

Americans who top the podium at the Milan Cortina Games will be in line for a $37,500 bonus. Their competitors could collect as much as $800,000.

Though Team USA's roster is full of veterans, including five-time Olympian Hilary Knight, the team has been buoyed by new blood throughout the Games. Seattle Torrent forward Hannah Bilka, 24, has scored three goals in an incredible first Winter Games.

Winning an Olympic medal can bring in a significant payday for athletes. From USA to Kazakhstan and Korea to Canada, a look at the medal bonuses in the Milan Cortina Games.

Kazakhstan will host the 2029 Asian Winter Games after the Olympic Council of Asia on Thursday named Almaty as the new venue, replacing Saudi Arabia.

The Winter Asian Games will return to Kazakhstan after nearly two decades, with an agreement signed in Milan confirming the country as the host for