The Olympic spirit was on full display in the Italian capital this week as International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach and his successor, Kirsty Coventry, paid a formal visit to Italy’s Prime Minister. The meeting underscored the government’s dedication and sustained efforts in preparing for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games.
Held in the prestigious Palazzo Chigi, the political heart of Italy, the encounter took place during the Jubilee of Athletes celebrations, adding symbolic weight to the discussions. Bach and Coventry were joined by Italy’s Minister for Sport and Youth, Andrea Abodi; Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) President Giovanni Malagò; and Andrea Varnier, CEO of the Milano Cortina 2026 Foundation.
The high-level talks served to reaffirm the strong institutional relationship between Italy and the IOC, with both sides expressing confidence in the ongoing preparations for the Winter Games. According to Abodi, the atmosphere was one of “constructive dialogue and mutual understanding.”
In remarks shared with Italian news agency ANSA, Abodi said, “The meeting was both productive and positive. We presented updates on completed milestones as well as the work ahead. Our focus and collaboration will continue right up until the day after the Games conclude.”
Bach, who is set to step down after a long tenure as IOC President, expressed his appreciation for the Italian government’s engagement and the coordination between national and local authorities. Meanwhile, Coventry, a former Olympic gold medallist from Zimbabwe and current chair of the IOC Athletes’ Commission, is preparing to carry the Olympic vision forward in her upcoming term.
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first edition of the Games to span two iconic Italian cities, Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo,combining innovation with a deep respect for tradition. Organisers have placed strong emphasis on sustainability, legacy, and cost-efficiency, while aiming to deliver a memorable celebration of sport.
With less than two years to go, the visit in Rome served as both a symbolic and practical milestone, an affirmation of Italy’s readiness and the IOC’s trust in its host nation.
