The 2026 Winter Olympics are set to dazzle the world as they take place across Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, from February 6 to 22, 2026. These Games promise a thrilling mix of high-speed alpine skiing, breathtaking snowboarding, figure skating, ice hockey, and many more winter sports. 

With events spread across iconic venues — from the historic San Siro Stadium in Milan to the snowy slopes of Cortina and Livigno — fans can expect unforgettable action and stunning scenery. Top athletes from around the globe will compete for gold, making this edition of the Winter Olympics a must-watch spectacle that combines sport, culture, and Italian charm.

Where the 2026 Winter Olympics Are Happening: Cities & Venues

• Milan
  
  • Hosts the Opening Ceremony at San Siro Stadium
  • Indoor events: figure skating, ice hockey, short track, and speed skating
  • Italy’s fashion and cultural capital
    
• Cortina d’Ampezzo
  
  • Historic winter sports town in the Dolomites
  • Events: alpine skiing, curling, sliding sports (bobsleigh, skeleton, luge)
    
• Valtellina & Livigno
  
  • Alpine venues for freestyle skiing and snowboarding
  • Known for challenging slopes and stunning scenery
    
• Verona
  
  • Hosts the Closing Ceremony
  • Ancient Roman Arena provides a unique historic backdrop
    
• Overall
  
  • Games spread across multiple cities and mountains
  • Combines urban excitement, alpine adventure, and cultural heritage

2026 Winter Olympics: Sports and Competitions to Watch

• Alpine Skiing
  
  • Hosted at Cortina d’Ampezzo and Tofane slopes
    
  • Fast-paced and adrenaline-filled races
    
• Figure Skating
  
  • Singles, pairs, and ice dance competitions
    
  • Held in Milan
    
  • One of the most-watched and artistic events
    
• Ice Hockey
  
  • Men’s and women’s tournaments
    
  • Intense team action on indoor rinks in Milan
    
• Snowboarding & Freestyle Skiing
  
  • Events like halfpipe, slopestyle, and big air
    
  • Slopes in Livigno and Valtellina
    
  • Known for high-flying tricks and stunts
    
• Speed Skating & Short Track
  
  • Fast-paced races on ice
    
  • Hosted in Milan’s indoor arenas
    
• Sliding Sports
  
  • Bobsleigh, skeleton, and luge
    
  • Thrilling, high-speed events at Cortina tracks
    
• Curling
  
  • Men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles
    
  • Strategic team sport requiring skill and precision
    
• Other Events
  
  • Ski jumping, biathlon, Nordic combined, and cross-country skiing
    
  • Each sport offers unique challenges and showcases athletic versatility
    

Top Athletes to Watch at the 2026 Winter Olympics

• Mikaela Shiffrin (USA) – Alpine Skiing
  
  • Defending Olympic champion in slalom events
    
  • Known for precision, speed, and consistency on the slopes
    
• Nathan Chen (USA) – Figure Skating
  
  • Reigning world champion
    
  • Famous for high-difficulty jumps and artistic performance
    
• Johannes Thingnes Bø (Norway) – Biathlon
  
  • Multiple Olympic and World Championship medalist
    
  • Combines endurance and shooting accuracy under pressure
    
• Ester Ledecká (Czech Republic)
  
  • Dual-sport competitor and two-time Olympic gold medalist
    
  • Thrills fans with versatility and daring performances
    
• Canada & Sweden – Ice Hockey Teams
  
  • Traditional powerhouses in men’s and women’s tournaments
    
  • Known for speed, skill, and high-intensity team play
    
• Elena Runggaldier (Italy) – Ski Jumping
  
  • Hometown favorite competing in Cortina d’Ampezzo
    
  • Represents Italy’s hope for medals in ski jumping
    
• Rising Stars to Watch
  
  • Young talents from Japan, South Korea, and Switzerland in speed skating, snowboarding, and freestyle skiing
    
  • Potential for surprises and record-breaking performances

Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 2026 Winter Olympics

The Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 2026 Winter Olympics promise to be a spectacular celebration of sport, culture, and Italian heritage. The Opening Ceremony will take place at San Siro Stadium in Milan, combining breathtaking performances, colorful parades, and the iconic lighting of the Olympic flame. Top international artists and cultural acts will showcase Italy’s rich history and artistic flair, creating an unforgettable start to the Games. 

The Closing Ceremony will be held in the ancient Roman Arena of Verona, offering a dramatic and historic backdrop as athletes from around the world are honored for their achievements. Together, these ceremonies highlight the spirit of unity, excellence, and celebration that define the Olympic Games.

How to Watch the 2026 Winter Olympics: Schedule, Streaming & Coverage

Fans around the world can follow the 2026 Winter Olympics through multiple platforms, ensuring they don’t miss a single thrilling moment. Major broadcasters in each country will provide live TV coverage, while official Olympic streaming services and apps will allow viewers to watch live events, replays, and highlights on mobile devices. 

The event schedule, including dates and times for each sport, will be available on the official Olympics website and app, making it easy to plan which competitions to watch. Whether you prefer TV, online streaming, or social media updates, the 2026 Games offer flexible options to experience every race, jump, and medal ceremony in real time.

Fun Facts and Records to Know About the 2026 Winter Olympics

• Italy’s Third Winter Olympics
  
  • Italy previously hosted in 1956 (Cortina d’Ampezzo) and 2006 (Turin).
    
• Most Widespread Winter Games
  
  • Events will be held across Milan, Cortina, Livigno, Valtellina, and Verona, covering both city and mountain venues.
    
• Historic Venues
  
  • The Closing Ceremony in Verona Arena combines ancient architecture with modern Olympic flair.
    
• Dual-Sport Athletes
  
  • Competitors like Ester Ledecká may compete in both skiing and snowboarding, adding excitement.
    
• Innovative Sustainability Efforts
  
  • Organizers are using green energy, eco-friendly venues, and public transport initiatives to reduce environmental impact.
    
• Record-Breaking Possibilities
  
  • New stars may set world records in speed skating, skiing, or snowboarding.
    
• Cultural Highlights
  
  • Italy’s music, art, and traditions will be showcased in both ceremonies and venue events.

Conclusion

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo promise to be a spectacular celebration of sport, culture, and global unity. From the thrilling competitions in alpine skiing, figure skating, and snowboarding to the breathtaking venues and historic ceremonies, every aspect of these Games is designed to captivate fans around the world. 

With top athletes, rising stars, and unforgettable performances, the Milano Cortina Olympics will not only showcase athletic excellence but also highlight Italy’s rich heritage, scenic beauty, and commitment to sustainability. For fans and spectators, the 2026 Winter Olympics will be more than just a sporting event — it will be an inspiring and memorable global experience.