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Milano Cortina 2026: A Bold New Era for Winter Olympics
4 Feb
Summary
- The 2026 Games will be the most geographically spread out in history.
- NHL players will return to the Winter Olympics for the first time since 2014.
- Ski mountaineering debuts as a new sport, and gender balance reaches new heights.
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, scheduled from February 6-22, are set to redefine the Winter Games. This edition will be the most geographically spread out in Olympic history, demanding extensive travel between venues. Notably, NHL players will return to Olympic competition for the first time since 2014, enhancing the men's hockey tournament's excitement.
New to the 2026 Games is the debut of ski mountaineering, adding a new discipline to the Winter sports roster. Organizers are also prioritizing gender parity, with women comprising 47% of athletes, marking the most balanced Winter Olympics to date. The Paralympics will follow from March 6-15.
Venues will be concentrated in Milan for indoor events, while mountain sports will utilize scattered locations across the Alps, including Cortina and Livigno. This geographical sprawl presents unique logistical challenges for athletes and spectators alike.
