Two-time Olympic gold medallist Olaf Tufte dies at 50
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 22, 2026, 11:12 AM
Last updated Jul 22, 2026
Olaf Tufte, the two-time Olympic rowing champion from Norway, passed away at the age of 50. He was found unconscious at his farm and later died in a hospital in Oslo. Tufte had a remarkable Olympic career, competing in seven consecutive Games from 1996 to 2021, and was celebrated for winning golds in single sculls at the Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 Olympics. He also earned a silver and bronze medal in double sculls. Beyond his athletic prowess, Tufte contributed to the sport as a coach. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre highlighted Tufte's impact on Norwegian sports and his legacy as a role model.
- •Tufte won consecutive gold medals in Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008.
- •He competed in the Tokyo Olympics at age 45.
- •Tufte was involved in coaching and mentoring young athletes.
- •He managed a farm and built multiple businesses.
- •Norwegian Prime Minister lauded Tufte's contribution to national sport.
- 11:12 AMYahoo Sports — Two-time Olympic gold medallist Olaf Tufte dies aged 50
"Tufte competed in seven consecutive Olympic Games, winning back-to-back gold medals at Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008
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