Milano Cortina 2026 organizers emphasize readiness and momentum for the Games in an update from the IOC board

She continued: “We have had the organizing committee produce an incredibly good progress report, sharing the last few focus areas that we are all working on together, and some of the successful test events that have taken place. We know that the new model of these Games will allow winter sports enthusiasts to compete in some of their favorite locations, as well as showcasing some of the best and most beautiful, iconic areas of Italy, and we can’t wait to be there in a few weeks.”

How prepared is Milano Cortina 2026 for the Games?

Organizers reported that willingness continues to increase in each cluster. Sites are now in the final stages of construction and fit-out, and the transition to a fully operational mode is accelerating. The Uniform & Accreditation Center opened in November and is already processing tens of thousands of employees, volunteers and contractors – a major milestone marking the start of the Games. Additional accreditation centers will be opened in the mountain clusters in January to support the mobilization of staff during the Games at the snow venues.

With almost 51,000 accreditations issued, the Organizing Committee confirmed that staffing levels are on track, with strong volunteer involvement in all regions.

What did the test events demonstrate?

Recent international sporting competitions held at Olympic venues – including the International Skating Union (ISU) Junior World Cup Speed ​​Skating, the International Bobsleigh & Skeleton Federation (IBSF) World Cup in Bobsleigh and Skeleton, and the ongoing International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Ice Hockey U20 World Championship Division 1B – have provided vital opportunities to assess operational readiness under real competitive conditions.

The events allowed organizers to test athlete flows, playing field, timing and results services, venue logistics, technology and sports presentation. Feedback from athletes and international federations was described as positive and constructive, with praise for the quality of the competition environment and the collaboration with the teams on site. The insights gained will now lead to final refinements during February.

How does the torch relay proceed?

Milano Cortina 2026 reported that the Olympic torch relay continues to attract significant public interest since the start of its Italian journey on December 6. Communities, schools and cultural groups across the country have taken part in the celebrations around the flame, reflecting the strong national support for the Games.

The relay was highlighted as a key driver of public engagement, connecting Italians to the Olympic values ​​of peace, friendship and excellence while raising expectations.

What’s next?

Milano Cortina 2026 has entered the final readiness phase, accelerating site activation, staff training and technology integration across all clusters. These preparations will ensure that competition venues and essential services are fully suitable for the Games by early 2026. Following successful test events, the strong public involvement of the Olympic Torch Relay and advanced workforce mobilization, the project is entering the home phase with clear momentum.

The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place from February 6 to 22, 2026, followed by the Winter Paralympics from March 6 to 15, 2026.

Tickets are available here.