Asian Winter Games Open in Harbin, China

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina will mark Italy's third time hosting, with IOC chief Thomas Bach emphasizing the country's readiness as the one-year countdown commenced. Bach assured that the contentious bobsleigh track in Cortina will be completed on schedule, dismissing any possibility of relocating events to Lake Placid. Meanwhile, preparations for the Asian Winter Games, set to open in Harbin, China, are fully underway, with a record 1,275 athletes from 34 countries participating. The Games will feature events crucial for athletes' preparation for the upcoming Winter Olympics. South Korea aims to replicate its strong performance from the last edition, targeting multiple gold medals in short track speed skating and other disciplines. As the Asian Winter Games unfold, they will serve as a final competitive platform ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics, highlighting the region's winter sports talent.