How to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics: Streaming options, schedule, and times

2026-02-07 · Source: News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET · Field: Media & Entertainment — Digital Media & Streaming, Entertainment Technology & Innovation · Depth: Novice, medium

Summary

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, running for two weeks and concluding on February 22, will feature 17 days of competition with approximately 2,900 athletes from over 90 nations. NBCUniversal will provide extensive daily coverage, including live broadcasts of all 116 medal events such as skiing, ice skating, and curling, primarily airing on NBC between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET. For viewers without traditional cable, several streaming options are available. Peacock Premium offers all 116 events live for $11 per month, with features like Live Actions and Discovery Multiview. Other services like DirecTV, Hulu + Live TV ($90/month), Sling TV ($55/month for Sling Blue), and YouTube TV provide access to key Olympic channels, with varying DVR capabilities and simultaneous device streams. Additionally, an over-the-air (OTA) antenna can provide free NBC access, and a VPN like NordVPN is recommended for international viewers to access US-based coverage.

Key takeaway

For individuals planning to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics without cable, you should evaluate your streaming needs based on budget and desired features. Consider Peacock Premium for the most complete live event access, or an OTA antenna for free NBC coverage if you are within broadcast range. If you are outside the US, a VPN like NordVPN is essential to access region-locked American broadcasts, ensuring you don't miss any of the 116 medal events.

Key insights

Cord-cutters have multiple streaming and free options to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Principles

• Geo-restrictions require VPNs for international streaming.
• Live sports often necessitate premium streaming tiers.
• DVR features enhance flexible sports viewing.

Method

To stream the Olympics without cable, choose a live TV streaming service (Peacock, DirecTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, YouTube TV) or use an OTA antenna. International viewers should employ a VPN to access region-locked content.

In practice

• Subscribe to Peacock Premium for comprehensive live coverage.
• Use an OTA antenna for free NBC broadcasts.
• Employ NordVPN for streaming US coverage abroad.

Topics

• Winter Olympics Streaming
• Live TV Streaming Services
• Virtual Private Networks
• Peacock TV
• Cord Cutting

Best for: General Interest

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET.