Milan-Cortina, Italy, has been selected to host the Olympic Winter Games in 2026. The decision was taken during the 134th session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Lausanne, Switzerland.
The other candidate in the ballot was Stockholm-Are, Sweden. Milan earned 47 votes from the International Olympic Committee membership, compared to Stockholm’s 34.
IOC President Thomas Bach said: “Congratulations to Milan-Cortina. We can look forward to outstanding and sustainable Olympic Winter Games in a traditional winter sports country. The passion and knowledge of Italian fans, together with experienced venue operators, will create the perfect atmosphere for the best athletes in the world.”
He added, “The Olympic Winter Games Milan-Cortina 2026 will feature iconic venues and beautiful settings, combining the attractions of a modern European metropolis with a classic Alpine environment.”
The IOC Session decision means Milan-Cortina will also host the Paralympic Winter Games 2026.
This will be the fourth Olympic Games hosted in Italy and the first Olympic Games hosted by Milan. It will mark the 20th anniversary of the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin and the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Italy is a sport-loving nation, and winter sports are part of the tradition, culture and identity of Northern Italy. The region has world-class winter sports venues, ranging from the ice arenas of Milan to the well-established and iconic World Cup and World Championship destinations.
With regard to competition venues, Milan-Cortina 2026 prioritises sustainability and legacy, as 13 out of a total 14 facilities (93 percent) will be existing or temporary.
The project has the unified backing of the Italian sports movement, the private sector and national, regional and city governments – providing a solid foundation for its delivery.
It features a clear vision to use the Games as a catalyst to boost economic development across Northern Italy, including supporting the regions to achieve their specific tourism goals, and to stimulate economic activities between the metropolitan and mountain areas.
The games are scheduled to take place from 6 to 22 February 2026 in the Italian cities of Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.
The Winter Olympic Games is a major international multi-sport event held once every four years. Beijing, China will host the 2022 edition.
