A Historic Countdown Begins
The countdown is on. In just 100 days, Italy will welcome the world to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. From February 6 to 22, 2026, athletes and fans will gather to celebrate sport, design, and unity.
This next chapter in Olympic history will unfold across northern Italy, from Milan’s modern energy to Cortina d’Ampezzo’s alpine beauty. Visitors can expect thrilling competitions, cultural events, and the warmth of Italian hospitality.
Athletes Ready to Shine
During her visit to the Olympic Village in Milan, IOC President Kirsty Coventry shared an inspiring message:
“We cannot wait to welcome you here. It is going to be so much fun, so compact, so great that it makes me want to become a winter Olympian!”
The new docuseries “Athletes to Watch – Milano Cortina 2026” debuted this week on Olympics.com. The first episodes introduce rising and established stars, including Tess Ledeux, Emily Harrop, Flora and Miro Tabanelli, Lara Colturi, and Stefan Kraft.
Each athlete shares their journey toward the Games, offering a closer look at their preparation, challenges, and passion. Part II of the series will launch in January.
The event will also be the most gender-balanced Winter Games in history, with women competing in 50 events—four more than at Beijing 2022.
A Taste of Italy for the World
In true Italian fashion, food and art take center stage. The IOC has unveiled Olympic Rings Pasta, inspired by the Olympic symbol and designed by artist Marianna Tomaselli.
The creation celebrates Italy’s craftsmanship and creativity. The four limited-edition boxes feature winter sports scenes set against Italian landscapes.
Renowned chef Carlo Cracco and Olympic figure skater Valentina Marchei bring this concept to life in the new series Drop In. Together, they explore the bond between cooking and sport while preparing dishes inspired by the Games.
“Teamwork is essential, both in sport and cooking,” said Cracco. “When every piece comes together perfectly, the result is something extraordinary.”
Digital Innovation Connects Fans Worldwide
Fans can already join the excitement with the official Olympic Games app, now available in 12 languages. The app follows athletes’ journeys and provides news, results, and live updates.
When the Olympic flame is lit on November 26 in Olympia, users can follow the Torch Relay in real time. The relay will travel across Italy’s most scenic cities and regions, highlighting stories of unity and community spirit.
The app also links directly to ticketing platforms and includes guides for venues and schedules—an essential tool for visitors planning to attend Milano Cortina 2026.
Tickets, Travel, and Experiences
Eighty-five percent of competition venues for Milano Cortina 2026 are existing or temporary. This makes it one of the most sustainable Winter Games yet.
Events will unfold across breathtaking settings, from alpine valleys to historic Italian towns. Fans can purchase tickets and hospitality packages now at tickets.milanocortina2026.org.
The spectacular Opening Ceremony, titled Armonia, will celebrate art and human connection. Additional tickets will be released on November 12.
Worldwide Olympic Partner Visa remains the Official Way to Pay. Fans can also enter the TCL Giveaway to win a trip for two to Milano Cortina 2026 by voting for favorite athlete moments before November 15 on Olympics.com.
An Invitation to Experience Italy at Its Best
The Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games promise more than competition. They represent Italy’s spirit—its art, cuisine, innovation, and sense of togetherness.
From Milan to Cortina, visitors will experience Italy’s love of beauty and its passion for sport. With only 100 days left, the excitement is building for what promises to be a historic Winter Games—a celebration of excellence, culture, and Italian style.
For updates, visit www.milanocortina2026.org.
