The world’s greatest winter sporting spectacle is heading to Italy. The 2026 Winter Olympics, officially known as Milano Cortina 2026, promise a celebration of elite sport, sustainability, culture, and alpine beauty set against the timeless charm of northern Italy.
From historic cities to dramatic mountain landscapes, here’s your complete, copyright-free guide to everything that matters.
A Historic Italian First
Italy will host the Winter Games for the third time, following Cortina d’Ampezzo in 1956 and Turin in 2006. What makes 2026 special is its multi-city format, with events spread across iconic urban and alpine locations.
The Games will take place from 6 February to 22 February 2026, welcoming thousands of athletes and millions of fans from around the globe.
Host Cities & Venues
The Games are jointly hosted by Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, supported by venues across Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige.
- Milan will host the Opening Ceremony and ice events such as figure skating, ice hockey, and speed skating.
- Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled in the Dolomites, will be the heart of alpine skiing and sliding sports.
- Other events will take place in locations like Bormio, Livigno, and Anterselva.
This distributed approach reduces new construction while showcasing Italy’s most renowned winter destinations.
Sports to Watch
The 2026 Winter Olympics will feature 16 disciplines across 8 sports, including fan favorites and high-adrenaline events:
- Alpine Skiing
- Snowboarding & Freestyle Skiing
- Ice Hockey
- Figure Skating
- Speed Skating & Short Track
- Biathlon
- Bobsleigh, Luge & Skeleton
- Nordic Combined & Ski Jumping
Expect fierce rivalries, breakthrough performances, and emotional medal moments on snow and ice.
Sustainability at the Core
Milano Cortina 2026 is built around a strong sustainability vision. Instead of constructing large new facilities, the organizers are prioritizing existing and temporary venues, minimizing environmental impact.
Key sustainability goals include:
- Reduced carbon footprint
- Reuse of Olympic infrastructure post-Games
- Protection of alpine ecosystems
- Long-term economic benefits for local communities
This model aims to set a new benchmark for future Olympic Games.
Italian Culture Meets Olympic Spirit
Beyond sport, the 2026 Winter Olympics will be a showcase of Italian excellence design, fashion, food, music, and heritage. Visitors can expect a unique blend of Olympic tradition and Italian lifestyle, from world-class cuisine to historic architecture and vibrant city life.
The Games will also highlight Italy’s passion for sport, craftsmanship, and hospitality on a truly global stage.
Why Milano Cortina 2026 Matters
The 2026 Winter Olympics are more than a sporting event they represent a modern, responsible vision of the Games. By combining innovation with tradition, and urban energy with alpine majesty, Italy is preparing to deliver an unforgettable Olympic experience.
As the countdown continues, all eyes will turn to Milan and the mountains beyond where history, sport, and style will meet on snow and ice.