Olympic Winter Games Sapporo 1972
Sapporo 1972
About the Games
Amateur Controversy
The subject of amateurism stirred controversy at the Sapporo 1972 Games. Austrian skier Karl Schranz was declared ineligible because he had allowed his name and photo to be used in commercial advertising, but full-time ice hockey players from communist nations were allowed to compete.
Japan’s Jump Joy
Before the Sapporo Games, Japan had never won a gold medal in the Olympic Winter Games. But in the normal hill ski-jumping event, Yukio Kasaya led from start to finish to claim gold. His team-mates Akitsugu Konno and Seiji Aochi won the silver and bronze to complete the Japanese clean sweep.
Sapporo 1972 Winter Olympic Games Legacy
Discover the lasting legacy that this edition of the Olympic Games created for its hosts.
Triple Champions
Cross country skier Galina Kulakova of the USSR won the 5km and 10km events and anchored the Soviet relay team to victory. Ard Schenk of the Netherlands won three speed skating golds in convincing fashion. Such was his popularity in the Netherlands that a flower was named in his honour: Crocus chrysanthus Ard Schenk.
Medal Table
See the list of teams and medals won by each.
1972
Featured Athletes
Replays from
Sapporo 1972
1972
Discover the Games
The Brand
A visual identity is developed for each edition of the Olympic Games.Brand
The Medals
Beginning as an olive wreath, medal designs have evolved over the years.Medals
The Torch
An iconic part of any Olympic Games, each host offers their unique version.Torch