who will hold the 2026 winter olympics

Deyi Xiabing

4 min read

·

14-03-2025

2

0

Share

The 2026 Winter Olympics: Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo's Bid for Glory

The 2026 Winter Olympics are fast approaching, and the world's eyes are turning towards the Italian cities of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, the triumphant hosts selected to stage this prestigious sporting event. This collaborative bid, a first for the Winter Olympics, promises a unique and exciting experience, blending the vibrant urban energy of Milan with the breathtaking alpine scenery of Cortina d'Ampezzo. But the path to securing the games was not without its challenges, and the preparations underway are equally complex and fascinating.

The Bidding Process: A Contested Race to the Finish Line

The journey to becoming the 2026 Winter Olympics host began with a competitive bidding process, involving several strong contenders vying for the coveted title. Initially, a number of cities expressed interest, reflecting the global appeal and prestige associated with hosting the Winter Olympics. However, the field eventually narrowed down to three serious contenders: Stockholm-Åre (Sweden), Erzurum (Turkey), and the joint Italian bid of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo.

Each bid presented its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Stockholm-Åre, capitalizing on Sweden's rich winter sports heritage and existing infrastructure, proposed a sustainable and environmentally friendly Games. Erzurum, a city in eastern Turkey, offered a compelling narrative of bringing the Olympics to a region less familiar with the global sporting spotlight. However, concerns about human rights and environmental impact ultimately impacted their bids.

The Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo bid proved to be particularly compelling, leveraging Italy's passionate embrace of winter sports and the country's stunning natural landscapes. The plan to spread events across two distinct locations – the metropolitan area of Milan and the picturesque Dolomites around Cortina d'Ampezzo – offered a unique selling point, promising a diverse and memorable Olympic experience. This dual-host concept addressed concerns about concentrating the environmental impact and logistical challenges of hosting such a massive event in a single location. Furthermore, Italy's existing infrastructure, coupled with planned upgrades, played a crucial role in securing the bid, reassuring the International Olympic Committee (IOC) of the country's preparedness.

The Decision: Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo's Victory

On June 24, 2019, the IOC Session in Lausanne, Switzerland, made the historic announcement: Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo would host the 2026 Winter Olympics. The decision marked a significant moment, not only for Italy but also for the future of the Winter Olympics. The IOC recognized the compelling aspects of the joint bid, its commitment to sustainability, and the overall vision for a memorable and impactful Games. The vote showcased the ability of a collaborative approach to overcome the challenges often associated with hosting such a large-scale event.

The success of the Italian bid also speaks volumes about the evolution of the Olympic bidding process. The IOC has increasingly emphasized sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and the long-term legacy of the Games. The Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo bid successfully aligned itself with these priorities, showcasing a commitment to utilizing existing infrastructure wherever possible and minimizing the environmental footprint of the event.

Preparations: A Complex Undertaking

The awarding of the 2026 Winter Olympics to Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo initiated a complex and multifaceted undertaking. A range of preparations are underway, addressing everything from venue construction and renovation to transportation infrastructure, accommodation, security, and volunteer recruitment.

The venues themselves are a key focus. Existing venues in both Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo will undergo significant upgrades, ensuring they meet the rigorous standards required for Olympic competition. New venues, particularly in Cortina d'Ampezzo, are also planned, reflecting the commitment to providing athletes with top-class facilities. This includes building new snow-making infrastructure to mitigate against climate change uncertainties, though this itself raises some concerns about environmental impact.

Beyond the venues, the focus is on ensuring smooth and efficient transportation networks, connecting Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo and ensuring easy access for athletes, officials, and spectators. Accommodation for the vast number of visitors expected during the Games is also a major logistical challenge, requiring careful planning and coordination.

The Legacy: A Lasting Impact on Italy

The 2026 Winter Olympics are not just a fleeting event; they are poised to leave a lasting legacy on Italy. The Games are anticipated to stimulate economic growth, particularly in the regions hosting the events. Investments in infrastructure, tourism promotion, and job creation are expected to generate significant economic benefits long after the closing ceremony.

Furthermore, the Olympics can act as a catalyst for sustainable development. The Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo bid included a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, highlighting the potential for the Games to promote green initiatives and inspire environmental awareness. This commitment extends beyond the immediate event, with plans to ensure the long-term environmental benefits of the Games.

Beyond economic and environmental impacts, the Games also present an opportunity to enhance Italy's international profile and showcase its cultural heritage to a global audience. The combination of Milan's modern urban landscape and Cortina d'Ampezzo's stunning alpine beauty promises a truly unique and captivating Olympic experience, promoting Italy as a leading destination for both winter sports and cultural tourism.

Challenges and Concerns

Despite the excitement and anticipation, the road to 2026 is not without its challenges. The ambitious plan to spread events across two locations requires meticulous coordination and logistical expertise. Maintaining the budget and ensuring the timely completion of construction and renovation projects are also critical considerations.

Environmental concerns, particularly regarding the impact of snow-making on the delicate alpine ecosystem, remain a point of discussion. While the organizers have pledged to minimize the environmental footprint, ongoing monitoring and adaptation are crucial to ensuring the sustainability goals are met.

Finally, managing the influx of tourists and ensuring the security of the Games are paramount. Italy's experience hosting major international events will be vital in navigating these challenges.

Conclusion: A Promising Future for the 2026 Winter Olympics

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo promise a unique and memorable experience, combining the vibrancy of a modern metropolis with the breathtaking beauty of the Italian Alps. While challenges remain, the meticulous planning, collaborative efforts, and commitment to sustainability provide confidence that these Games will be a resounding success, leaving a positive and lasting legacy on Italy and the wider world of winter sports. The countdown is on, and the stage is set for a spectacular celebration of athletic excellence and international cooperation.