Winter Olympics 2026: Everything You Need to Know About Milan Cortina Games
Italy Prepares to Host the 2026 Winter Olympics
The countdown is on for the Winter Olympics 2026, as the XXV Winter Olympic Games, commonly known as Milano Cortina 2026, is scheduled to take place from 6 to 22 February 2026 at sites across Lombardy and Northeast Italy. This marks a historic return of the Winter Games to Italy, the fourth such competition hosted by Italy, after the Winter editions in Cortina d’Ampezzo in 1956 and Turin in 2006 and the Summer Games in Rome in 1960. The Games represent a significant moment for winter sports enthusiasts worldwide, bringing together elite athletes across multiple venues in one of Europe’s most scenic regions.
Team USA Roster Takes Shape
Major announcements have dominated recent headlines as teams finalise their Olympic rosters. On Sunday, Jan. 11, 16 athletes were named to the team that will represent the United States at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan next month. The U.S. figure skating squad features impressive talent, with standout athletes including Amber Glenn, who at 26, is the oldest female U.S. singles skater in 98 years. Meanwhile, Zach Stoopelmoor, an ice speed skater from West Des Moines, is set to represent the United States in the 500-meter, marking a significant milestone as the first Iowan to compete in ice speed skating at the Olympics.
Venues and Infrastructure Updates
From 6 to 22 February 2026, around 2,900 athletes from over 90 National Olympic Committees will compete in 116 events on ice and snow, in eight sports and 16 disciplines. Most ice events, aside from curling, will be held in the Milan cluster, while sliding and snow events will be held in clusters around Cortina, Valtellina and the Fiemme Valley. However, preparations have faced challenges. A guard at a construction site near a 2026 Winter Olympic venue in the mountain resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo died during a frigid overnight shift, highlighting safety concerns at Olympic construction sites.
What to Expect from Milano Cortina 2026
The 2026 Winter Olympics promise exciting innovations alongside traditional winter sports excellence. Ski mountaineering, or skimo, will make its Olympic debut at the 2026 Winter Games, adding fresh energy to the competition programme. Competitions begin Feb. 4, with the opening ceremony on Feb. 6, first gold medal events occurring Feb. 7, and the closing ceremony on Feb. 22. For sports fans worldwide, these Games offer a chance to witness history as athletes compete across Italy’s breathtaking mountain landscapes. With qualification events still ongoing and teams being finalised, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of winter sports excellence.