Winter Olympic Games: a proposal for periodization, historical transformations, and competitive (in)equalities

Abstract

This article analyzes the historical evolution and medal distribution of the Winter Olympic Games, proposing a four-phase periodization: Regionalization (1924–1960), Expansion (1964–1980), Opening (1984–1992), and Globalization (1994–present). The objective is to understand how political, economic, and institutional transformations have shaped the event and influenced the concentration of sporting results over time. Methodologically, this study adopts a qualitative and quantitative approach, based on documentary analysis and the collection of official data regarding participation and performance of countries across different editions of the Games. The data were organized and comparatively analyzed across the defined periods in order to identify patterns of hegemony, diversification, and redistribution of medals. The results show that during the Regionalization phase, medal distribution was highly concentrated among European and North American countries, reflecting geographical and structural constraints. In the Expansion phase, there was an increase in the number of participating countries, although traditional dominance remained largely unchanged. The Opening phase is characterized by geopolitical reconfiguration following the end of the Cold War, leading to broader participation without significant changes in medal distribution. Finally, the Globalization phase demonstrates increased media visibility and global reach, accompanied by some degree of competitive diversification, despite persistent structural inequalities. It is concluded that the Winter Olympic Games have undergone processes of expansion and increasing complexity, while still reflecting enduring global disparities in sports development.