where will the next winter olympics be in 2026

2 min read 14-03-2025

where will the next winter olympics be in 2026

Meta Description: Discover where the excitement of the 2026 Winter Olympics will unfold! Learn about the winning bid, Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, and what to expect from this stunning co-hosting arrangement. Explore the venues, events, and the unique Italian experience awaiting athletes and spectators alike. Get ready for the games!

The 2026 Winter Olympics are fast approaching, and the world is eagerly anticipating the spectacle of athletic competition and winter wonderlands. So, where will the next Winter Olympics be held? The honor goes to Italy, specifically a joint hosting effort between Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo.

A Partnership for the Games: Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) selected the Milan-Cortina bid in June 2019, marking the third time Italy will host the Winter Olympics (after Cortina d'Ampezzo in 1956 and Turin in 2006). This unique co-hosting arrangement promises a diverse and memorable experience. Milan, a vibrant modern city, will host the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as many indoor events. Cortina d'Ampezzo, a picturesque mountain town in the Dolomites, will provide the stunning backdrop for the snow sports competitions.

Milan: The Urban Heart of the Games

Milan, Italy's second-largest city, brings a cosmopolitan energy to the 2026 Winter Olympics. The city’s existing infrastructure, including modern venues and excellent transportation, will be leveraged to create a seamless experience for athletes and visitors. Many indoor events, such as ice hockey and figure skating, will be held in state-of-the-art arenas within the city. The opening and closing ceremonies will take place in the newly renovated San Siro stadium, further showcasing Milan's innovative spirit.

Cortina d'Ampezzo: Alpine Majesty

Cortina d'Ampezzo, nestled within the breathtaking Dolomites mountain range, will host the heart of the winter sports events. Known for its stunning scenery and world-class ski resorts, Cortina d'Ampezzo offers a quintessential alpine Olympic experience. The town's existing ski facilities will be enhanced to accommodate the Olympic-level competitions, ensuring an unforgettable spectacle for athletes and spectators alike. The alpine skiing events will take place on the iconic slopes of the Dolomites, providing a dramatic setting for the competition.

What to Expect from the 2026 Winter Olympics

The 2026 Winter Olympics promise a unique blend of urban dynamism and alpine charm. The co-hosting arrangement offers a diverse range of venues, ensuring a world-class experience for athletes and visitors. Here’s a glimpse of what to anticipate:

The Venues

Milan: Indoor venues for ice hockey, figure skating, short track speed skating, and curling, along with the opening and closing ceremonies at the San Siro stadium.
Cortina d'Ampezzo: Alpine skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports events in the Dolomites. Several existing facilities will be upgraded and expanded for the Olympics.

The Events

The 2026 Winter Olympics will feature all the traditional winter sports, including:

Alpine Skiing
Biathlon
Bobsleigh
Cross-country Skiing
Curling
Figure Skating
Freestyle Skiing
Ice Hockey
Luge
Nordic Combined
Ski Jumping
Snowboarding
Speed Skating

A Sustainable Future for the Games

The Milan-Cortina bid emphasized sustainability, aiming to minimize the environmental impact of hosting the games. The organizers plan to utilize existing infrastructure whenever possible, reduce waste, and promote eco-friendly practices throughout the event. This commitment to sustainability reflects a growing trend in major sporting events worldwide.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo are poised to be a truly spectacular event. The unique combination of urban excitement and alpine grandeur, along with the commitment to sustainability, promises a memorable experience for athletes and spectators worldwide. Get ready for an unforgettable winter!