Delegations from around the world gathered in Milan from 24 to 30 March to participate in the first-ever Joint Olympic and Paralympic Chefs de Mission Seminar, an important step in the preparations for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games.
VENUE TOURS AND MULTI-HUB MODEL
With less than a year to go until the Games, the seminar provided team leaders with key insights and essential connections to support their athletes and staff. Delegates had the opportunity to engage directly with Organising Committee experts, gaining first-hand knowledge about key operations and services, as well as visiting several host venues.
On 25 March, more than 100 representatives visited the Olympic and Paralympic Village in Milan, as well as the Milan Ice Skating Arena and the new Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. Throughout the week, the visits continued to the mountain clusters of Bormio, Livigno, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val di Fiemme, and Anterselva, offering delegates a detailed view of the innovative multi-hub model of these Games.
AN INNOVATIVE AND SUSTAINABLE FORMAT
Andrea Varnier, CEO of Milano Cortina 2026, highlighted this format as a defining feature of the Games. According to Varnier, this pioneering model aims to provide an unforgettable experience for athletes and promote the importance of winter sports, showcasing their spectacular nature to the world.
In line with the recommendations of Olympic Agenda 2020, 85% of the competition venues are either existing or temporary. This approach reflects the Organising Committee’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency, strengthening efforts through collaboration with local institutions and sports event experts.
COLLABORATION BETWEEN THE IOC AND IPC
The seminar marked the first time that National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) participated together in a jointly organised event. This reflects the strong partnership between the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC).
Varnier stated: “The Chefs de Mission Seminar is a fundamental step in the final stretch towards the next Winter Games. For the first time, this seminar brings together Olympic and Paralympic delegations, a practical example of the optimisation that involves us daily alongside the IOC and IPC. In a way, ‘optimisation’ is the name of these Games.”
POSITIVE FEEDBACK FROM DELEGATES
The Chefs de Mission appreciated the opportunity to engage directly with organisers and gain first-hand insights into the Games’ preparations. Eve Muirhead, Team GB’s Chef de Mission and Olympic curling champion, shared on social media: “An incredible few days of learning, connecting with other leaders, and getting a glimpse of what promises to be unforgettable Olympic Winter Games. Exciting times ahead!”
