There are still two significant medal events to go before the Sochi Olympics move on to the Closing Ceremony, but host country Russia essentially clinched the top marks thanks to a strong showing in the men’s cross-country 50 km mass start.
Sweeping that event gives Russia 32 medals, putting its lead out of reach. They also top all countries with 12 gold medals, which is unlikely to be surpassed, as well.
Update: Men’s four-man bobsled gold gives them 33 medals overall and 13 gold medals, both tops in Sochi. The U.S. finishes with eight.
Alexander Legkov (pictured up front) edged his compatriots for gold with a 1:46:55.2 time. Second and third came down to a photo finish between fellow Russians Maxim Vylegzhanin and Ilia Chernousov, with Vylegzhanin getting the nod for silver. Norway’s Martin Johnsrud Sundby finished in fourth at 1:46:56.2.