The road to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games has begun in earnest, following the announcement of the full calendar of test events for the upcoming winter season. These events will serve to evaluate the venues and operational readiness for the Games, which will be held in just over a year’s time.
The program, announced on December 6, will include numerous snow and ice events that will allow fans from around the world to enjoy the “new Italian spirit” reflected in the rich culture, history and hospitality of the host regions of Milan and the Italian Alps.
FIRST EVENTS AND OBJECTIVES
The first wave of test events will include national and international competitions at the Games venues. These events will not only benefit from the stunning Italian scenery, but also from a passionate local fan base. It will be a key opportunity for organizers to simulate real conditions and fine-tune processes before welcoming more than 3,500 athletes who dream of winning an Olympic or Paralympic medal in 2026.
The calendar kicks off on December 28-29 with the FIS Men’s Alpine Skiing World Cup in Bormio on the legendary Stelvio piste. The first event of 2025 will be the Tour de Ski, which will take place January 3-5 in Val di Fiemme. Then, on January 18-19, Cortina will host the FIS Women’s Alpine Skiing World Cup on the iconic Olympia delle Tofane piste.
PARALYMPIC SPORTS AND ICE
Paralympic events will also have their prominent space. Val di Fiemme will host the Para Biathlon World Cup at the end of January, followed by Paralympic cross-country skiing competitions on February 1 and 2. These events will make it possible to evaluate the same slopes that will welcome athletes during the Paralympic Games.
In ice sports, the Milano Ice Skating Arena will host the final stage of the ISU Short Track World Tour from February 14 to 16, followed by the “Road to 26” figure skating Trophy on February 19 and 20. Bormio will return to the calendar on February 22-23 with the ISMF Ski Mountaineering World Cup, a sport that will make its debut on the Olympic program at Milano Cortina 2026.
TICKET REGISTRATION AND NEXT STEPS
Fans wishing to secure their tickets for the Games can register by January 15, 2025 at tickets.milanocortina2026.org to participate in the early access draw, which will begin on February 6. Those who do not register will have another opportunity to purchase tickets starting April 6.
The Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games will be held Feb. 6-22, while the Paralympic Games will take place March 6-15. With breathtaking scenery and an organization focused on delivering an unforgettable experience, Italy is ready to welcome the world’s best athletes and celebrate the spirit of sport.
