Italy Prepares Widespread Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics

The 2026 Winter Olympics, set in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, will be the most widespread Winter Games ever, utilizing mostly existing venues across northern Italy. The Games will open at Milan's iconic San Siro stadium, which will be demolished post-Games, and feature venues like the new Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena and the Fiera Milano exhibition complex hosting speed skating and hockey events. Over 3,500 athletes from 93 countries will compete in 16 Olympic sports and 6 Paralympic sports, with the United States fielding top contenders such as Chloe Kim and Mikaela Shiffrin. Preparations are in the final stages, with the International Olympic Committee confident in venue readiness and looking forward to the torch relay to boost public engagement. In addition, a digitally fabricated, self-sufficient wooden bivouac pavilion designed by Carlo Ratti Associati will debut at the Games and later be relocated to the Alps as a shelter for mountaineers, showcasing innovative sustainable architecture. The Games will introduce eight new events, and unique Olympic medals made from recycled metal will be awarded, underscoring a blend of tradition and innovation.