The 2026 Winter Olympics, also known as the XXV Olympic Winter Games, is an upcoming multinational winter multi-sport event that will take place in two host nations: Italy and France. This historic decision marks the first time in Olympic history that the Winter Games will be co-hosted by two countries.
The announcement of Milan andCortina d'Ampezzo in Italy, and the French Alpine resort of Les CCC as the host cities for the 2026 Winter Olympics was made at the 135th International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session in Lausanne, Switzerland, in June 2019.
About the Host Cities
The dynamic Italian duo of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo have a rich history with the Olympics. Milan hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics, while Cortina d'Ampezzo welcomed the world to its slopes for the 1956 Games and again in 2026. The French resort of Les CCC, renowned for its excellent snow conditions and stunning Alpine landscape, will be making its Winter Olympics debut.
Together, these threedestinations promise a unique blend of vibrant urban culture, historic Olympic charm, and world-class winter sports facilities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike.
Milan, Italy
As the largest city in Italy and the third-largest in the European Union, Milan is well-equipped to handle the international attention the Olympics bring. The city is home to state-of-the-art venues like the Mediolanum Forum Pahoya, which will host ice hockey, and the PalaItalia Santa Giulia, set to welcome curling enthusiasts.
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
A charming mountain town nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Cortina d'Ampezzo has a long-standing love affair with winter sports. The region's SlalomArena Agordino will stage Alpine skiing events, while the nearby inselberg of Lavaredo will play host to bobsleigh and skeleton competitions.
Cortina's picturesque streets, traditional wooden chalets, and stunning mountain backdrops will serve as the perfect setting for the winter sports extravaganza, with visitors and athletes alike able to enjoy the best of the Dolomites during their visit.
The Co-hosting Concept
The co-hosting model for the 2026 Winter Olympics aims to reduce the cost and environmental impact of staging the Games while maximizing regional benefits. This approach will see many events held across multiple venues in both Italy and France, fostering international cooperation and promoting the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship.
By dividing responsibilities between the three host cities, organizers can take advantage of existing infrastructure, minimize new construction, and create lasting legacies in each region. This collaborative approach sets a new precedent for future Olympic Games and reflects the IOC's commitment to sustainable sport.
Sustainable Games
The 2026 Winter Olympics will prioritize sustainability, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the IOC's own Agenda 2020 and 2021 reforms. This focus includes using renewable energy sources, implementing waste management strategies, and promoting the use of public transportation during the Games.
In addition, organizers are committed to reducing the carbon footprint of the Games and fostering a positive impact on the host communities. By embracing these sustainability principles, the XXV Olympic Winter Games aim to set a benchmark for environmental responsibility in international sport.
The Athletes' Village
The Athletes' Village will be a hub of activity during the 2026 Winter Olympics, providing comfortable accommodations for athletes, coaches, and staff. In Milan, the redeveloped Athletes' Village will become part of the broader urban regeneration project for the city's Portello district, ensuring a lasting legacy for the community.
In Cortina d'Ampezzo, the village will be located in the panoramic area of Zuel di ;na, close to the venue for biathlon and Nordic skiing events. Les CCC will also develop a modern, eco-friendly Athletes' Village, providing a welcoming home-away-from-home for athletes from around the world.
The 2026 Winter Olympics promises an exciting blend of international sport, vibrant cultures, and sustainable practices. With two nations and three extraordinary host cities coming together to make history, the stage is set for an unforgettable celebration of winter athleticism and global unity. As we look ahead to 2026, anticipation grows for an Olympic experience that embodies the spirit of ' united by passion.'