Milano Cortina 2026 Kicks Off: Winter Olympics Begin Across Northern Italy

The 2026 Winter Olympics, officially called Milano Cortina 2026, are now underway in Northern Italy.

The Games began on February 6, 2026, and will run until February 22, 2026, bringing together nearly 2,900 athletes from over 90 countries.

These Olympics are unique because they are being hosted across two main cities- Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, with additional competitions in nearby mountain valleys such as Bormio and Livigno.

Athletes are competing in 116 events across 8 sports and 16 disciplines, including skiing, snowboarding, ice hockey, figure skating, speed skating, curling, bobsleigh, and luge.

 Opening Ceremony Highlights

The Games kicked off with a spectacular opening ceremony at San Siro Stadium in Milan.

For the first time in Winter Olympics history, two Olympic flames were lit- one in Milan and another in Cortina d’Ampezz,o symbolizing unity between the host cities.

“The dual flames represent harmony between the host cities and the Olympic spirit,” said one of the organizers.

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The ceremony included music, dance, and cultural performances, as well as the parade of nations, where athletes from around the world proudly marched into the stadium.

 Early Winners and Medal Highlights

Italy made history when Francesca Lollobrigida won gold in the women’s 3,000 m speed skating, marking Italy’s first gold medal of the Games and the first-ever Olympic gold for an Italian woman in speed skating.

“I am so happy and proud to bring Italy its first gold. This is a dream come true,” Lollobrigida said after her victory.

In alpine skiing, Franjo von Allmen of Switzerland surprised many by taking gold in the men’s downhill, defeating pre-race favorites.

Curling competitions have also begun, despite a brief power outage, and are continuing successfully.

Venues and Competitions

The events are spread across Northern Italy to utilize the best facilities and natural landscapes:

• Milan: Ice hockey, figure skating, speed skating, and curling.
• Cortina d’Ampezzo: Alpine skiing, snowboarding, freestyle skiing, and mountain events.
• Bormio: Men’s downhill skiing and the Olympic debut of ski mountaineering.
• Livigno: Snowboard and freestyle skiing competitions.
• Cortina Sliding Centre: Luge, bobsleigh, and skeleton races. (AP)

 Weather Challenges

The Games have faced warmer-than-usual winter weather, a growing issue due to climate change.

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Some skiing and snowboarding slopes have required artificial snowmaking to ensure safe and fair competitions.

“Climate change is challenging our preparation, but we are ready to deliver top-level competitions,” organizers said.

 Watching the Games

Fans worldwide can watch the Winter Olympics on major TV networks and online streaming platforms, bringing live competitions from Italy directly into homes.

 Olympic Spirit and Global Message

As always, the International Olympic Committee encourages peace and unity during the Games, with calls for ceasefires in conflict areas while competitions take place.

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The opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 winter olympics at San Siro Stadium
PHOTO/Getty Images