Kirsty Coventry, president of the International Olympic Committee, is looking forward to her first Games in 2026. She marked the 100-day countdown to the Winter Olympics by praising Italy’s beauty, creativity, and sporting spirit. She said the venues combine history and culture, calling them “stunning” and promising “a beautiful show.”
Coventry is excited about what awaits in Italy. “Italy is famous for its landscapes, the family atmosphere, and the passion Italians have for sport. They’re ready to put on a show,” she said.
After visiting the Olympic Village, she admired the design and atmosphere. “The rooms are beautiful, the gym and dining hall are excellent. It blends history, culture and passion, it really is stunning. This venue makes me want to try winter sports myself!”
Milano Cortina will also be the first Games under the new Olympic Agenda reforms. They will be the most gender-balanced Winter Olympics in history and will focus on sustainability by using existing facilities and highlighting regions with a winter sports tradition.
Coventry stressed that the IOC remains committed to transparency, responsibility, and Olympic values. She also confirmed the IOC’s neutral stance, following the same approach as in Paris.
The Games will take place from 6 to 22 February 2026, featuring 16 sports across 116 events. The Winter Paralympics will follow from 6 to 15 March, with six sports over nine days.
This will be Italy’s third time hosting the Winter Games, offering a mix of tradition and modernity, alpine scenery and urban elegance, with the world watching as Italy hosts the next chapter of Olympic history.
