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Not every great app costs hundreds of dollars a year in subscription fees. Whether you're looking to edit photos or work with PDFs, here are some of the best free Windows apps available.

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Phantasmal Flames Sleeved Booster Pack Lot is down to $66.96 at Amazon. That's $23 shaved off its usual $89.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Phantasmal Flames Sleeved Booster Pack Lot $66.96 at Amazon
$89.99 Save $23.03   Get Deal

Amazon has surprisingly dropped the price on one of the most sought-after Mega Evolution-era Pokémon TCG bundles, making now a great time to stock up if Phantasmal Flames is still on your hit list. As of Feb. 4, the Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Phantasmal Flames Sleeved Booster Pack Lot is down to $66.96 at Amazon, saving you $23 off its $89.99 list price. 

This sealed lot includes eight sleeved Phantasmal Flames booster packs, each containing 10 cards, for a total of 80 trading cards pulled directly from the expansion. This bundle works out to just over $8.37 per pack. With individual Phantasmal Flames boosters on Amazon going for $9.87 right now, you’re saving $12 compared to buying eight separately.

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Released as part of the Mega Evolution era, Phantasmal Flames features over 120 cards and introduces more Mega Evolution Pokémon ex, along with a lineup of Trainer cards and more than 15 Pokémon and Trainer cards with special illustrations. It’s an expansion of the Mega Evolution set that’s proven popular with collectors chasing flashy pulls, particularly those drawn to the darker, more vivid art style this collection is known for — like the Special Illustration Rare Mega Charizard X ex worth $644 or the golden Mega Hyper Rare version.

Amazon is also offering free delivery, with faster shipping available depending on your location. Given how quickly sealed Mega Evolution stock tends to dry up once prices dip, this is the kind of deal that may not stick around for long.

For more Pokémon TCG deals from this expansion, you can also get the Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box for $15 off at Amazon. Meanwhile, the Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Booster Bundle is still available for around $7 off.

Another day, another press conference in which the U.S. president insults a female reporter.

In the clip above, Jimmy Kimmel recaps a recent interaction in which Donald Trump told CNN news anchor and chief White House correspondent Kaitlan Collins "I don't think I've ever seen you smile" after she asked him a question about the latest batch of Epstein files.

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"We are now at the 'women should smile more' stage of his presidency," says Kimmel. "I'm trying to think of a worse time to tell a woman to smile more than when that person is a reporter asking about the Epstein victims — I can't."

Elsewhere, Kimmel also responds to U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche telling Fox News' Laura Ingraham that "it is not a crime to party with Mr Epstein."

"That's right. It's also not a crime to borrow a bottle of baby oil from Diddy," says Kimmel. "They're not crimes. Stop being such a buzzkill, everybody."

SAVE $160: As of Feb. 4, the Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP1 is on sale for $499.95 at Amazon. That's a 24% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP1 $559.95 at Amazon
$659.99 Save $100.04   Get Deal

If you're a chronic allergy sufferer, an air purifier can make a noticeable difference around the home. It can help ease allergy symptoms, but also help cut down on pet hair and dust before they become an issue. It can also tackle cooking smells and generally improve how clean and fresh the air in your home feels.

The Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP1 is one of the best purifiers on the market, and it's on sale right now. As of Feb. 4, this unit is down to its lowest-ever price, now just $499.95. That's a saving of $160 on list price.

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This Dyson purifier works by using a fully sealed filter system that combines a HEPA filter with an activated carbon layer to trap tiny particles, allergens, and pollutants, while also removing gases and everyday odors. The entire unit is sealed to HEPA H13 standards, so anything it captures stays inside the machine; nothing sneaks back out into the air.

And it also works as a fan and heater, circulating clean air throughout the room, perfect for cooling in summer and warming spaces in winter. You can even see how good (or bad) the air quality is through the MyDyson app.

Get this Dyson deal from Amazon now.

LibreOffice is one of the best alternatives to Microsoft Office and Google Docs, and now it's rolling out a major update. LibreOffice 26.2 has arrived with some new features, compatibility improvements with Microsoft Office, and faster performance.

I haven't charged the Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980 wireless keyboard once since set-up, and that's the point. While its solar charging is nearly its only special feature, it does what it does well, delivering an excellent typing experience, long-lasting battery life, portability, and multi-device support.

The NYT Connections puzzle today is not too difficult to solve if you're a sports fan.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for February 4, 2026 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: A dispute

• Green: Possibility

• Blue: Estimated

• Purple: Basketball clubs

Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Contention

• Green: Games of chance

• Blue: More or less, colloquially

• Purple: Starting with NBA teams

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #969 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Contention: CONFLICT, DISCORD, FRICTION, RIVALRY

• Games of chance: BINGO, CRAPS, LOTTERY, WAR

• More or less, colloquially: APPROX, BOUT, LIKE, ROUND

• Starting with NBA teams: BULLSEYE, HEATED, MAGICAL, NETSCAPE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for February 4, 2026

Are you also playing NYT Strands? Get all the Strands hints you need for today's puzzle.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

Today's NYT Strands hints are easy if you have a side passion.

Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game, requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for February 4, 2026 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for February 4, 2026 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: For the enthusiast

The words are related to pasttimes

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words describe leisure activities.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Hobby Shop

NYT Strands word list for February 4

• Miniature

• Puzzle

• Model

• Hobby Shop

• Collectible

• Game

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Strands.

Today's Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you're used to being chastised.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for February 4, 2026 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for February 4, 2026 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

To scold.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter C.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

CHIDE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for February 4, 2026

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026:

Across"The Rachel Maddow Show" channel, after a 2025 rebranding

• The answer is Ms Now.

Childhood

• The answer is Youth.

Greek letter after zeta and eta

• The answer is Theta.

What helicopter parents do

• The answer is Hover.

Sound at the dog park

• The answer is Arf.

Down"Cats always land on their feet," e.g.

• The answer is Myth.

Neighborhood in both London and Manhattan

• The answer is Soho.

___ York, Spanish name for New York

• The answer is Nueva.

Furry mammal that eats crustaceans

• The answer is Otter.

Docking area

• The answer is Wharf.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

Whether you just started dating or you’re practically engaged, shopping for a unique Valentine's Day gift for your boyfriend can be a surprisingly tricky task. How much should you spend? Is it lame to go for a big romantic gesture, or is it lame to not go all out? Of course, the whole "we're not doing gifts this year" thing is never helpful — you both know you're still getting gifts.

If you're stuck in a gift-giving rut, here's our best advice: Zero in on the items he uses daily (or wishes he had daily) and the topics he brings up whenever you're together. These are easy jumping-off points for thoughtful gift ideas that'll make him feel seen, whether they're on the romantic side or practical side. Need some inspiration? We've handpicked a list of more than 25 cute Valentine's Day gift ideas for boyfriends that aren't the obvious ones he may be expecting. For more gift ideas for guys, we have even more options in our list of the best Valentine's Day gifts for men and the (more general) best gifts for him.

SAVE $70: As of Feb. 4, Beats Studio Buds+ are on sale for $99.95 at Amazon. That's a 41% discount on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Buds+ $99.95 at Amazon
$169.95 Save $70.00   Get Deal

We're always searching for great deals on earbuds and headphones, and as of Feb. 4, we've found a top deal on the Beats Studio Buds+.

These are seriously impressive earbuds, with built-in noise cancelling and sweat resistance for workouts, and now you can get them for $70 less. Right now, you can buy them for just $99.95, down from the original list price of $169.95. You'll get the choice of three colors: black, ivory, or transparent.

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As you'd expect with any Beats product, the sound quality in these earbuds is second to none. They use Beats’ custom acoustic platform to give a clear and balanced sound. For different listening needs, you can choose between various listening modes: Active Noise Cancelling to block out background noise, or Transparency mode to hear what’s going on around you.

The battery life is impressive and will last up to 36 hours with the charging case. They also work easily with both Apple and Android devices, with quick one-touch pairing and solid Bluetooth connectivity for both. They’re also IPX4 sweat and water resistant, so they're a perfect option for workouts, and you don't need to worry if you're caught listening in a rain shower.

You can find Beats Studio Buds+ on sale at Amazon now, but only for a limited time.

It's Bad Bunny's world, and we're all just living in it. Or at least that's how pop culture feels right now. After winning Album of the Year at the 2026 Grammys — a milestone moment for Latin music — and topping Spotify's global charts for a fourth time in 2025 with 19.8 billion streams, Benito now heads to the biggest stage of all as the Super Bowl LX halftime show headliner on Feb. 8, 2026.

With that level of cultural gravity, every move feels intentional. Throughout his rise, the 31-year-old rapper has centered his Puerto Rican identity even as his audience went global. In a moment when immigration is once again a flashpoint in American culture — underscored by his recent anti-ICE remarks at the Grammys — that commitment feels sharper than ever.

So, as Bad Bunny heads to the Super Bowl stage, the obvious question is simple: What does he choose to perform when the entire world is watching? With a catalog that spans reggaetón, trap, pop, and traditional island sounds, the possibilities for this 13ish-minute set are vast.

Here are some of our picks.

"NUEVAYoL"

Kicking things off with the standout opening track from his Grammy-winning album Debí Tirar Más Fotos feels like the obvious move. "NUEVAYoL" sets the tone immediately: confident, nostalgic, and rooted in his story.

The track opens with a nod to Puerto Rican salsa history, sampling El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico’s 1975 song "Un Verano en Nueva York," before snapping into Bad Bunny’s modern, dembow-driven sound. It's a celebratory collision of island roots, Nuyorican legacy, and Benito's global pop ambition — the perfect bridge between Latin America and the U.S.

"BAILE INoLVIDABLE"

Translated to "unforgettable dance," this six-minute salsa centerpiece frames life as a fleeting party — one that must eventually end, so you might as well make it memorable. Built on rich piano lines, trumpet flourishes, and layered vocals, the track pays tribute to classic salsa with a big-band feel.

Its inclusion in the Super Bowl halftime show teaser, set to him dancing alongside others beneath a vibrant Flamboyán tree, signals that this moment will be as much about cultural celebration as it is about perreo: heritage and spectacle folded into one stadium-sized performance.

"Tití Me Preguntó"

Built around a frantic dembow beat and rapid-fire name-checking of fictional girlfriends, "Tití Me Preguntó" finds Bad Bunny leaning fully into his bravado. It's playful without feeling disposable, absurd without losing precision, and it's a dancefloor burner.

The track is also one of the defining hits from his 2022 album Un Verano Sin Ti, which made history as the first all-Spanish album to become the most-streamed project globally. More than just a viral moment, "Tití Me Preguntó" captures his ability to turn internet energy into stadium-sized bangers. It's loud, fast, and designed to send a crowd into instant motion.

"Callaíta"

"Callaíta" is Bad Bunny in soft-focus mode. Built on breezy production by Tainy, the song captures the tension between public composure and private desire. On the Super Bowl stage, it would offer a rare breather: a moment of intimacy and atmosphere amid the noise. Not every halftime set needs to sprint. Sometimes, control is the flex.

"DÁKITI"

“DÁKITI” remains one of Bad Bunny’s most effortlessly cool records. It's a slow burn anchored by its hypnotic beat, understated synths, and his chemistry with Puerto Rican rapper Jhayco. The track is an electro-fused blend of house and reggaetón that pulses like a hazy club track and moves like a reggaetón anthem.

It’s a crossover without compromise: Spanish-language, minimalist, and globally dominant. In a halftime context, “DÁKITI” would read as a reminder that he rewrote the rules of what mainstream could look and sound like.

"Safaera"

A fan-favorite for a reason, “Safaera” is chaotic in the best way. It's a five-minute genre-hopping monster that ricochets between reggaetón, old-school samples, chant-alongs, and club mayhem. Featuring Puerto Rican reggaeton duo Jowell & Randy and Puerto Rican rapper Ñengo Flow, it plays like a DJ set compressed into one track, with a surprise Jaws sample lurking in the mix.

While past legal disputes over its samples (especially its heavy use of Missy Elliott's "Get Ur Freak On") once made the track difficult to perform, those issues have since been resolved — clearing the way for its full, glorious chaos on the Super Bowl stage. If Bad Bunny wants a moment that breaks the internet in real time, this is it.

"I Like It"

Perhaps his most visible U.S. crossover to date, "I Like It" introduced millions of listeners to Bad Bunny's voice and charisma alongside American rapper Cardi B and Colombian singer J Balvin. It also topped the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Bad Bunny's first number one song in the U.S.

Built on a boogaloo sample and bursting with personality, the track bridges generations and geographies: Latin old-school, Bronx energy, and modern pop in one package. A guest appearance, particularly from Cardi B, would add another layer of star power to an already massive set.

"La Romana"

OK, this is a bit of a wildcard, but if Bad Bunny wants to throw it all the way back to his first studio album, 2018's X 100pre, then "La Romana" would be a fuego choice. The song finds him trading verses with Dominican dembow titan El Alfa, flitting between Latin trap and straight-up dembow energy. This song would go crazy with some pyrotechnics.

"Caro"

Alternatively, he could pivot to "Caro" and bring out Ricky Martin, who featured on the track, for good measure. The pairing would instantly register with U.S. audiences (and elder millennials), linking Bad Bunny's generation to one of Puerto Rico's most recognizable global exports.

More importantly, "Caro" remains one of his boldest early statements: a playful, defiant anthem about self-worth, gender expression, and the refusal of respectability politics. Alongside Ricky Martin — one of the most visible queer Latino pop stars in history — the moment could become a powerful celebration of unapologetic self-definition on the most mainstream stage in American entertainment.

"EoO"

"EoO" is pure, unfiltered reggaetón, a Grammy-winning banger for Best Global Music Performance that leans into the roots of perreo itself. The title plays off the last syllables of perreo, and the track's dirty beat and relentless groove make it an anthem for any crowd ready to dance.

With its effortless swagger and club-ready energy, it’s exactly the kind of song that could give the halftime show a kinetic high point.

"CAFé CON RON"

Is this wishful thinking? Maybe. But the plena ensemble Los Pleneros de la Cresta would be an excellent addition to the Super Bowl stage.

With Afro-Puerto Rican plena rhythm and call-and-response energy, the track feels communal and jubilant, like a street block party brought to life. With its title literally meaning "coffee and rum," it evokes simple, everyday morning rituals and the island's rich musical heritage as much as it does a good time. Its presence on the set would be a full-on cultural assertion, threading century-old rhythms into the halftime frame.

"DtMF"

For the sentimental types, you probably heard "DtMF" all over your TikTok FYP last summer. (Bad Bunny's emotional reaction to the trend racked up a cool 189 million views on the app.) Short for Debí Tirar Más Fotos (“I should have taken more photos”), the track is equal parts introspective and uplifting — a meditation on cherishing the time you have with people and, in some cases, places.

It's also built to be sung out loud. Through its lively interplay of rhythm and chant, Bad Bunny turns remembrance into celebration, transforming nostalgia into something communal. After all, it's a sentiment we all can relate to. On a Super Bowl stage, it would land with the force of a mass singalong, turning private memories into a shared, stadium-wide release.

"La Borinqueña"

Not a Bad Bunny song, but including the Puerto Rican national anthem "La Borinqueña" in his set would be a powerful statement and a nod to where he comes from and why representation at this scale matters.

Super Bowl Sunday is nearly here. And even if you're not a sports fan, it remains the biggest unofficial American holiday. Or maybe you are a sports fan but don't understand why there's so much talk about Bad Bunny's halftime show.

No matter your interests, we here at Mashable have you covered. We've collected all the major storylines, important people, and info you need to know for Super Bowl LX on Sunday, Feb. 8.

Super Bowl LX: The facts

The New England Patriots will face off against the Seattle Seahawks for Super Bowl LX (that's 60 in Roman numerals, by the way). Here are the quick, bullet-point facts you need to know about the game.

• The game kicks off roughly at 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, Feb. 8. It's being played outside of San Francisco and will air on NBC. You can also stream it on Peacock.

• The Seahawks are considered slight favorites to win, having reached the big game largely on the strength of their dominant defense. The Patriots, meanwhile, skyrocketed to success (yet again) after a brief downturn following the end of the Tom Brady era.

• Both quarterbacks in the game have interesting backstories, which brings us to our next section...

The football stars you need to know

The Super Bowl can turn somewhat anonymous NFL players into household names. Here are the stars you should probably know before the game kicks off.

• Drake Maye: The career paths for the Super Bowl LX quarterbacks could not be more different. Maye, who quarterbacks the Patriots, has rocketed upward since being drafted two seasons ago. His first year was promising, but this season — under a new coaching staff — he played at a potentially MVP-winning level. He's one of the most promising young players in the NFL, performing at an elite level well ahead of schedule.

• Sam Darnold: It's been more of a roller coaster ride for Darnold. He was drafted third overall in 2018 by the New York Jets but struggled to find success with the franchise synonymous with failure. He flamed out in New York and with his second-chance franchise, the Carolina Panthers. He spent a year as a backup before joining the Minnesota Vikings, reviving his career with a 14-win season, only to be discarded again. Now here he is in Super Bowl LX with his new team, the Seattle Seahawks.

• Stefon Diggs: Diggs, a New England wide receiver, was once a superstar, even if he's a bit less explosive now at 32 years old. But you also might know him as Cardi B's boyfriend.

• Jaxon Smith-Njigba: Smith-Njigba is Seattle's star receiver, who had a stunning breakout season. Expect to see him catching the ball. A lot.

• Mike Vrabel: The Patriots coach is sort of a magician. Last year, a version of this roster won a pathetic four games. This season, they won 14 games. You can give a lot of that credit to Vrabel, who took over in 2025.

• Mike MacDonald: The Seattle coach. He's a defensive guru who has totally transformed the franchise in just two years at the helm.

There are, obviously, lots of other stars in the big game, but those are the absolute top-line folks you need to know.

View this post on Instagram Other names you need to know

The Super Bowl is much more than just the game itself. Here are the other folks who'll almost certainly play a role in the broadcast.

• Bad Bunny: The wildly talented Puerto Rican megastar is playing the halftime show.

• Tom Brady: The legendary Patriots QB who led the team to six Super Bowl victories.

• Bill Belichick: The legendary coach of the New England dynasty teams. He's been in the news for less fun reasons lately, namely his thus-far disastrous stint coaching North Carolina, and for being snubbed out of the Hall of Fame.

• Cardi B: The rap superstar is dating Diggs and will almost certainly be at the game.

• Ann Michael Maye: Fans in the Boston area are obsessed with Drake Maye and, in turn, have grown obsessed with his wife, Ann. And, to be fair, their relationship seems quite wholesome. Folks, especially, loved watching Ann's baking exploits on social media, which she dubbed "Bakemas" in the lead-up to Christmas. It was so popular, it has even branched out into a local, baking-focused TV show.

• Malcolm Butler: The Patriots defeated the Seahawks in the 2015 Super Bowl. The game was largely decided by a last-minute, miracle interception by New England defender Malcolm Butler. Get ready to see that play and to hear his name.

A highly anticipated halftime show (and the Trump of it all)

People are super excited to see Bad Bunny perform during halftime, especially fresh off Bad Bunny's Grammy win for Album of the Year. The Puerto Rican star has, however, regularly voiced his opposition to President Donald Trump and directly criticized ICE at the Grammys.

"Before I say thanks to God, I'm gonna say ICE out. We're not savage, we're not animals, we're not aliens, we are humans, and we are Americans," he said onstage.

A certain section of America — roughly the same folks upset at a Spanish-language artist performing at the Super Bowl — don't appreciate that criticism. A major question for folks is whether Bad Bunny will make a political statement during the halftime show, as he performs for America's largest TV audience.

The narratives and drama

Some football fans might not admit it, but the sport is all about the drama. We love a good story. Here are the narratives to know.

• Patriots fatigue: Football fans hated the Patriots for years as they dominated the NFL for much of the past two decades. Finally, with Brady gone, they had fallen back to Earth. Or so we thought. The franchise suffered just five middling years before returning to the Super Bowl. For many NFL fans, that is simply unfair. The Detroit Lions, for instance, are one of the oldest franchises in the league — around since 1930 — and have never appeared in a Super Bowl.

• Who's for real? These two teams are both great. But NFL fans love to doubt. Folks have questioned the ease of New England's schedule — it was one of the easiest in NFL history — and openly wondered if the team is that good. Other NFL fans, meanwhile, question if Darnold might spontaneously play like the guy who flamed out at previous stops.

• A new champion: The last half-decade has been dominated by the Kansas City Chiefs, who've won three Super Bowls since 2020. They typically faced off against the San Francisco 49ers or the Philadelphia Eagles in the big game. But 2026's matchup is completely different and is perhaps a marker of a new era.

There are, of course, a million things that could happen in the Super Bowl. Heck, the last time these teams played in the championship, a miracle interception happened. But now, at the very least, you've got a grasp on all the basics before game day.

TL;DR: Live stream the 2026 Winter Olympics ice hockey for free on CBC Gem. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Winter Olympics showcases so many sports that you wouldn't usually get the opportunity to watch. Of course we're making time to watch speed skating, bobsleigh, figure skating, ski mountaineering, and more from Milano Cortina 2026.

It's not like we don't get regular opportunities to watch ice hockey. Ever heard of the NHL? But ice hockey at the Winter Olympics is a different animal.

We get to see the best of the best from the NHL plus a bunch of athletes we've never heard of compete for their countries. There's something uniquely fun about international ice hockey. You get an amplified version of the game we all love, as teams do everything and anything to secure a medal.

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If you want to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics ice hockey for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is the 2026 Winter Olympics ice hockey?

The women's ice hockey schedule runs from Feb. 5-19. The men's ice hockey competition takes place from Feb. 11-22.

How to watch 2026 Winter Olympics ice hockey for free

Ice hockey at the 2026 Winter Olympics is available to live stream for free on CBC Gem.

CBC Gem is geo-restricted to Canada, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Canada, meaning you can access free live streams of the 2026 Winter Olympics ice hockey from anywhere in the world.

Live stream the 2026 Winter Olympics ice hockey by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Canada

4. Visit CBC Gem

5. Watch the 2026 Winter Olympics ice hockey for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the ice hockey plus the rest of the 2026 Winter Olympics before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the 2026 Winter Olympics?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Canada

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream the 2026 Winter Olympics ice hockey for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream the 2026 Winter Olympics alpine skiing for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There are so many fascinating events to follow from the Winter Olympics, so clear your schedule, shut the doors, and gather necessary refreshments. The Winter Olympics has everything you need over the next few weeks.

We know that's not realistic. We're aware that not everyone is going to be able to completely dedicate themselves to this spectable. Most fans will need to be selective. If you're picking and choosing from the busy schedule, we strongly suggest you make some time for alpine skiing.

Do you like seeing brave individuals throw themselves down a mountain at incredible speed, aiming to shave off fractions of seconds in a desperate attempt to secure a medal? Of course you do. This level of skiing is absolutely electric, and the best of the best are competing on this grand stage.

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If you want to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics alpine skiing for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is the 2026 Winter Olympics alpine skiing?

The alpine skiing schedule from the 2026 Winter Olympics is absolutely stacked. The full schedule of events is as follows:

• Men's Downhill — 5:30 a.m. ET on Feb. 7

• Women's Downhill — 5:30 a.m. ET on Feb. 8

• Men's Team Combined Downhill — 4:30 a.m. ET on Feb. 9

• Men's Team Combined Slalom — 8 a.m. ET on Feb. 9

• Women's Team Combined Downhill — 4:30 a.m. ET on Feb. 10

• Women's Team Combined Slalom — 8 a.m. ET on Feb. 10

• Men's Super-G — 5:30 a.m. ET on Feb. 11

• Women's Super-G — 5:30 a.m. ET on Feb. 12

• Men's Giant Slalom Run 1 — 4 a.m. ET on Feb. 14

• Men's Giant Slalom Run 2 — 7:30 a.m. ET on Feb. 14

The great news for fans is that it's possible to follow events live without spending anything.

How to watch 2026 Winter Olympics alpine skiing for free

The 2026 Winter Olympics alpine skiing is available to live stream for free on a number of services:

• Australia — 9Now

• Austria — ORF

• Canada — CBC Gem

• France — France TV

• Germany — ARD

• Ireland — RTÉ Player

• Italy — RAI

• Spain — RTVE

• UK — BBC iPlayer

These free live streams are geo-restricted, but anyone can bypass these restrictions with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another location, meaning you can access free live streams of the 2026 Winter Olympics alpine skiing from anywhere in the world.

Live stream the 2026 Winter Olympics alpine skiing by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with free access

4. Watch the 2026 Winter Olympics alpine skiing for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the alpine skiing plus the rest of the 2026 Winter Olympics before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the 2026 Winter Olympics?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream the 2026 Winter Olympics alpine skiing for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: The trAInedup.ai Basic Plan offers beginner-friendly, guided AI lessons focused on practical, everyday use. For a limited time, the lifetime subscription is $79.99, an 83% discount for new users.

Opens in a new window Credit: trAInedup.ai trAInedup.ai Basic Plan: Lifetime Subscription $79.98
$459 Save $379.02   Get Deal

AI is often framed as either highly technical or futuristic, which can be discouraging for people who want practical workplace apps. The trAInedup.ai Basic Plan takes a more grounded approach, offering guided lessons designed to help users build usable AI skills at their own pace. The lifetime subscription is discounted to $79.99 (reg. $459), an 83% savings that lowers the barrier to getting started.

trAInedup.ai structures learning into manageable steps from the beginning. Each user starts with a Skills Assessment that identifies strengths and gaps, then generates a personalized learning path. Courses are broken into concise modules with clear instructions, hands-on exercises, cheat sheets, and quick knowledge checks. Progress is tracked through an intuitive dashboard, and completion certificates can be downloaded for use on your résumé or LinkedIn profile.

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The platform is designed for people who are short on time but still curious. Busy professionals can use it to streamline everyday tasks or experiment with AI-powered productivity tools. Students may find it useful for building baseline AI literacy that applies across classes and future roles. Community access adds a collaborative element, giving learners a space to ask questions and share progress.

This is an entry-level plan aimed at new users, not an in depth program for the more experienced. Those already fluent in AI concepts may move through the material quickly. However, that simplicity is exactly what makes it approachable for beginners who want clarity instead of complexity.

If learning how to use AI more confidently has been on your list, the current 83% discount makes this lifetime subscription easier to justify. At $79.99, it offers a relatively low-cost way to explore online AI learning.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Heated Rivalry has audiences hot and bothered and hungry for more. But it'll likely be two years before rival hockey pros Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie) return with Season 2. So what are we to do until then?

Fans are split on this. Some will tell you to plunge into the source material, Rachel Reid's Game Changer book series, which offers several spicy, hockey-centered MLM novels. Others might suggest Ember & Ice, a Quinn audio erotica drop, which reunites Williams and Storrie as winged fairies yearning for each other. (It debuted so big, the app crashed.)

Still others will recommend the "gay fever dream" that is the Interview with the Vampire TV series, as it shares an enemies-to-lovers plotline and Ilya definitely has his Brat Prince moments. However, as a big fan of the Anne Rice-inspired series, I'll warn that Interview with the Vampire is much more about tragedy and trauma than it is queer joy. So, my top recommendation for those thirsting for more of a Heated Rivalry vibe would be the upcoming A24 offering Pillion.

SEE ALSO: Why is the sex in 'Heated Rivalry' so hot? How do Heated Rivalry and Pillion compare? Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams in the finale of "Heated Rivalry." Credit: Sabrina Lantos / HBO Max

An adorably eager Harry Melling stars as Colin, a timid virgin, who falls hard for a BDSM leather daddy named Ray — played by a strapping Alexander Skarsgård. This English romantic drama has earned buzz on the film festival circuit in 2025. In his review out of Cannes, Siddhant Adlakha called it "some of the most entertaining drama and comedy you're likely to see this year."

It's also hot, funny, and moving. But even at a glance, Pillion and Heated Rivalry have some striking similarities. Both Heated Rivalry and Pillion are based on novels; the former Rachel Reid's book of the same name, the latter Adam Mars-Jones's Box Hill. As Heated Rivalry was created by Jacob Tierney and Pillion written and directed by Harry Lighton, both adaptations are not only queer MLM romances with graphic sex scenes, but are also made by gay men.

Beyond that, their plotlines have a lot in common: A dark-haired young man who is very close to his parents falls for a swaggering, macho blonde who seems his polar opposite. To the surprise of others, they become lovers, thanks to the blonde initiating their first sexual encounter and being his new partner's first top. Though their relationship is initially about sex, they will grow to care for each other, leading to an awkward family meal where the blonde gets to know his lover's parents (for better or worse!).

However, from this meet-the-parents point Pillion speeds down a different path. While Colin and Ray won't ride off into the sunset like Shane and Ilya, Pillion is nonetheless a story of queer joy — but also kink.

Pillion offers BDSM kink, yearning, and heart. Harry Melling's "Pillion character poster." Credit: A24 Alexander Skarsgård's "Pillion" character poster. Credit: A24

Who says BDSM can't be sweet? Often, in the media, the kinks that involve bondage, dominance, discipline, submission, sadism, or masochism are painted with a scandalous brush that regards them as depraved and dangerous. The Fifty Shades trilogy was released with much hand-wringing over a woman surrendering herself to BDSM dominance by a man. House of Hammer, a documentary exposé about Armie Hammer, misrepresented the BDSM community by positing it as a space ripe for misogynistic abuse. And the Hellraiser franchise has been turning BDSM gear and the pleasure/pain dynamic into nightmare fuel since 1987. Occasionally, however, a movie comes along that showcases such kinks without condemnation, instead celebrating the pleasure found in the pain, the joy found in giving in, and the intimacy that can bloom between a dominant and a submissive. Following in the footsteps of such pro-BDSM film as Secretary and Babygirl comes Pillion. But unlike its sisters in kink, this offering has men in the dom and sub roles.

Like Heated Rivalry, Pillion is a tale of opposites attract that is hot, hilarious, and heartwarming. (But first and foremost: hot!) From the very start of Lighton's film, the stark contrast between his lovers is comically clear in how they present themselves to the world.

Their meet-cute is at an English pub, where Colin (Melling, who famously played Dudley Dursley in the Harry Potter movies) is crooning in a tweed hat and pastel-striped blazer, performing as part of a barbershop quartet alongside his dad (Douglas Hodge). It's a wholesome hobby that actually reflects the earnestness of Colin in all things, even his emerging interest in kink. Which is piqued by the tall, strapping blonde called Ray (Skarsgård) who's playing darts in the corner with a gang of rowdy bikers, all snug in leather, metal, and fetish gear.

When Ray makes a move on Colin, he's as shocked and titillated as a blushing Shane was when Ilya got randy in the showers. Unlike Shane Hollander, Colin is out to his family, so he is quick to tell his parents that he has a date with a biker. (They're so supportive that Colin's dad lends him a leather jacket to wear — ill-fitting though it may be!)

Where meeting the parents is the emotional climax of Heated Rivalry, it's the midway point of Ray and Colin's journey. With a firm hand, Ray leads Colin by the dog collar into a dom-sub relationship, demanding the young man be submissive, including cooking, cleaning, dressing to Ray's liking (in leather and metal), and surrendering his body for wrestling foreplay and anal sex.

New to this BDSM scene, Colin is often wide-eyed and awkward, but always consenting. Their first sexual encounter is subversive, sensual, and so fumbling that it's laugh-out-loud funny. Yet Pillion never urges the audience to laugh at Colin. Instead, the deep empathy of Lighton's approach and Melling's vulnerable performance urge us all to imagine ourselves in Colin's shoes. Who among us hasn't had a crush that made us willing to risk looking like a fool? Like Shane, Colin is earnest and vulnerable in his longing and eventually loving of his partner. But unlike Shane, Colin never experiences any shame for his queerness or desires.

Pillion and Heated Rivalry use sex as a tool of self-discovery. Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams share a shower in "Heated Rivalry." Credit: Sabrina Lantos / HBO Max

Both romances portray lovers who learn more about themselves through their sexual relationship with each other. Colin's journey, however, is not about coming to terms with being queer. It's about opening himself up to new experiences, and then setting boundaries as he understands what he wants.

For much of the film, he's happy to go along with whatever Ray wants. But as their relationship evolves, Colin doesn't just "yes and" all of Ray's commands, but pushes back, demanding more emotional intimacy. Now, their "cottage" moment is less private, more provocative — involving full frontal nudity and group sex — but still sweet. On a picnic table at a camping retreat, Ray gives in to Colin's need for more romance while meeting his need for BDSM kink. And watching them both thrill in this moment is as exciting as when Ilya says he's going to Shane's cottage.

Pillion won't probe Ray's psyche as deeply as Heated Rivalry does Ilya's. There will be no tragic backstory and little idea of what Ray does outside of Colin. Yet Ray doesn't feel unknowable because of Skarsgård's nuanced performance. While Melling offers a portrait that is so vulnerable you may well blush to see his exposed wanting, Skarsgård seems initially a snarling sex god. But as Ray lets Colin into his home, Skarsgård works a glint of softness and excitement into Ray's aloof demeanor. In these moments of flickering vulnerability, we get a sense of who Ray is outside of his persona as a dom. And surprisingly, it'll be Colin who pushes Ray out of his comfort zone.

Lighton's script bonds us to Colin, urging us to understand the thrill of discovery of kink, the swoon of being under the grip of an astoundingly hot lover, and the trembling fear of not being enough to keep them happy. But it's when Colin brings Ray into his world that a new side of this smoldering dom unlocks. It's a sequence that feels more rom-com than anything in Heated Rivalry, the kind of sequence you could imagine in a Richard Curtis movie, climaxing in a gleeful, affectionate tumble in a public park. And then comes a moment, small and unspoken but definitive. Their relationship will never, can never, be the same.

Alexander Skarsgård dominates in the kinkiest and sweetest movie of the year. Harry Melling and Alexander Skarsgård go on a first date in "Pillion." Credit: A24

But it's Melling who makes Pillion a marvel. Scenes of Ray's seduction will make the audience swoon, yet it's Melling's dedicated openness that makes Pillion feel authentic instead of like some splashy Hollywood fantasy. This isn't 50 Shades of Gray sleek and glamourous. This is wilder, richer, and infinitely more enthralling. Pillion is not only sexy and exciting, but also funny, poignant, and a shining beacon to all those trembling about letting their freak flag fly. 

Perhaps Ray is how we might wish to seem to a new partner, mysterious and breathtakingly cool. Colin is how we might fear being seen, so earnest that it’s “cringe.” Like Heated Rivalry, these two very different lovers represent mystique and openness. One will draw you in, but you need the other to keep a relationship growing. Whether it's Shane and Ilya or Colin and Ray, this is the lesson of both romances.

This tricky emotional growth is often glossed over in Hollywood sex scenes with a sweeping orchestral score and chaste coverage. Yet, these stories of gay men in love offer nudity, graphic sex, romantic fantasy, and in the end, an earnest, unapologetic reality. The English film and Canadian series are bolder and yet more delicate, and thereby electrifying and life-affirming.

Both these queer relationships begin with a risky hook-up, then grow through chemistry and an embrace of sex and exploration. Through these steamy and ardent romances, Pillion and Heated Rivalry challenge us: What more might we experience and enjoy if we — like the lovers themselves — dared to open ourselves up? 

Heated Rivalry is now on HBO Max. Pillion opens in theaters on Feb. 6.

TL;DR: Stream the 2026 Six Nations for free on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. Access these free streaming services from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Six Nations is a special competition. Want to see incredible speed and skill from supremely talented athletes? Check out the Six Nations. Want to experience intense passion from heated rivalries? The Six Nations offers that in abundance. Enjoy the sight of absolutely huge men smashing into each other at speed? Yep, the Six Nations is for you.

It's a tournament like no other, and fans can follow all the action from the latest edition without spending anything. If you want to watch the 2026 Six Nations for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the Six Nations?

The Six Nations Championship is an annual international men's rugby union competition between England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales. Each team plays every other team once, with home ground advantage alternating from one year to the next.

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The current champions are France. England and Wales have won the competition most often (39 titles).

When is the 2026 Six Nations?

The 2026 Six Nations Championship is the 132nd edition of the competition. This year's competition will take place from Feb. 5 to March 14.

How to watch the 2026 Six Nations for free

The 2026 Six Nations is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer and ITVX.

BBC iPlayer and ITVX are both geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access these free streaming platforms with a VPN. These tools can hide your digital location and connect you to a secure server in the UK. This quick and easy action makes it look like you're connecting from the UK, so you can stream on BBC iPlayer and ITVX from anywhere in the world.

Unblock BBC iPlayer and ITVX by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

4. Visit BBC iPlayer or ITVX

5. Stream the 2026 Six Nations for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to BBC iPlayer or ITVX without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to stream most of the 2026 Six Nations before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to all your favorite free streaming platforms, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for the Six Nations?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream sport for free, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream the 2026 Six Nations for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream the 2026 Winter Olympics for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

This is shaping up to be an absolutely huge year for sport. Sure, the World Cup is probably the biggest event on the calendar. But there are so many other massive moments to get excited about. And there's really no need to wait, because the action starts early in 2026.

The 2026 Winter Olympics is kicking things off in February with a host of top events including alpine skiing, ice hockey, bobsleigh, snowboarding, and so much more. You can stay warm and dry whilst the best of the best compete for medals in the cold. And better yet, you can follow all the action from Lombardy without spending anything.

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If you want to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the Winter Olympics?

The Winter Olympics is a major international event held once every four years for sports practiced on snow and ice.

Eight sports and 16 disciplines will feature on the programme for the 2026 Winter Olympics: Biathlon, Bobsleigh (Skeleton, Bobsleigh), Curling, Ice Hockey, Luge, Skating (Figure Skating, Speed Skating, Short Track Speed Skating), Ski Mountaineering, and Skiing (Alpine Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Freestyle Skiing, Ski Jumping, Nordic Combined, Freestyle Skiing, Snowboard).

Norway leads the all-time medal record for the Winter Olympics.

Where is the 2026 Winter Olympics?

The 2026 Winter Olympics takes place at sites across Lombardy and Northeast Italy. This is the first Olympic Games to be officially co-hosted by two cities. Milan will host the opening ceremony and the ice events. Cortina and the Valtellina and Fiemme valleys will host everything else.

When is the 2026 Winter Olympics?

The 2026 Winter Olympics is the 25th edition of the famous event. This year's event will take place on Feb. 4-22.

How to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics for free

The 2026 Winter Olympics is available to live stream for free on a number of services:

• Australia — 9Now

• Austria — ORF

• Canada — CBC Gem

• France — France TV

• Germany — ARD

• Ireland — RTÉ Player

• Italy — RAI

• Spain — RTVE

• UK — BBC iPlayer

These free live streams are geo-restricted, but anyone can bypass these restrictions with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another location, meaning you can access free live streams of the 2026 Winter Olympics from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2026 Winter Olympics by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with free access

4. Watch the 2026 Winter Olympics for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the 2026 Winter Olympics?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream the 2026 Winter Olympics for free with ExpressVPN.